Castel dell’Ovo in Naples: the legend of Virgil’s egg

Naples, a city of a thousand faces, holds within its ancient walls stories and legends shrouded in the mystery and magic of past centuries. One of the most captivating and charming places is undoubtedly Castel dell’Ovo, an imposing fortress rising on an islet in the Gulf of Naples. But what makes this millennia-old rock even more fascinating is the legend that surrounds it: the legend of Virgil’s egg.

The origin of the legend The legend tells that the imposing Castel dell’Ovo has its roots in the time of the ancient Romans when the city of Neapolis was still in development. Virgil, the famous Latin poet and mage, was commissioned by the king of Naples to build a fortress capable of protecting the city from external threats.

During the construction of the castle, Virgil had a hen’s egg placed at the center of the foundations, symbolizing prosperity and security. He predicted that as long as that egg remained intact, Naples would be safe from any external attack.

The mystery of the egg The fate of Virgil’s egg is the subject of fervent speculation and mystery. It is said that if the egg were to break, Naples would be destined for serious misfortune and ruin. Therefore, over the centuries, many have tried to uncover its secret, but no one has ever succeeded in pinpointing its precise location within the castle.

Castel dell’Ovo today Today, Castel dell’Ovo is one of the most iconic symbols of Naples and a must-visit destination for tourists visiting the city. In addition to its millennia-old history and the legend of Virgil’s egg, the castle offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples and hosts cultural events and art exhibitions that highlight its beauty and historical significance.