Tour in Naples

weathered human skull with preserved ear bones resting on a stone surface against a plain wall
5.0(26)
From ~$142
per group
1 hour
Underground & Catacombs
Naples

The Mystery of Naples Saga: The Skull with ears

At a Glance

Type
Underground & Catacombs
Duration
1 hour
Rating
5.0/5 (26)
Price
From ~$142/group
Fitness
Low – the tour involves w...

Tour Details

The skull with ears tour In the heart of San Gregorio Armeno, the street of cribs and artisans, there is a mysterious and hidden place: the Church of Santa Luciella ai Librai. It was founded by Bartolomeo Di Capua in 1327 and subsequently became a place of worship for the Guild of Pipernieri, Fabbricatori and Tagliamonti who entrusted the protection of sight to Santa Lucia, which was put at risk by their profession. The Association, founded by 4 young Neapolitans, has recovered the church both as a place of social inclusion and as an element of tourist development. In the basement of the church there is the famous Skull with Ears, from which the Neapolitans, until the mid-1900s, went to address their prayers, in the hope that by listening to them, he would take them directly to the afterlife: a real messenger between the world of the living and the dead.

What Makes This Tour Special

Visitors can see the rare 'Skull with Ears,' a physical artifact linked to prayers and superstitions distinctive to Naples. The tour includes access to the church’s crypt, offering insight into medieval guild worship and local folk beliefs not often highlighted in standard city tours.
  • Access to a rarely open church basement containing an unusual anthropological relic.
  • Insight into Naples’ medieval guild system and its influence on local culture and religion.
  • Close proximity to San Gregorio Armeno, allowing exploration of artisan workshops specializing in traditional nativity figures.
  • Guided explanations by locals involved in the restoration and preservation of the church.
  • A quiet, contemplative space contrasting with the surrounding busy streets.

Historical Background

The Church of Santa Luciella ai Librai was founded in 1327 by Bartolomeo Di Capua. It served as a place of worship for the Guild of Pipernieri, Fabbricatori, and Tagliamonti, craftsmen whose work endangered their eyesight and who sought protection from Saint Lucia. The church’s basement houses the 'Skull with Ears,' an unusual relic tied to local spiritual traditions.

Is This Tour Worth It?

This underground & catacombs activity is highly rated at 5.0/5 across 26 reviews, running 1 hour from ~$142 per group.

Best For

Families
Less ideal for: Wheelchair users

Pros

  • +Outstanding rating: 5.0/5
  • +Booked through Viator

Cons

  • -Cancellation policy not specified
  • -Inclusions not listed

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