✨The Secret Behind Naples' Glowing Alleys 🕯️

 The Secret Behind Naples' Glowing Alleys 🕯️✨

Have you ever noticed the hundreds of small, illuminated shrines on the corners of Naples' buildings? They are called "Edicole Votive," and they are much more than just religious symbols. They hold a fascinating secret about the history of this city. 🤫

💡 The First Street Lights In the 18th century, Naples was one of the largest cities in Europe, but its narrow streets were pitch black at night, making them dangerous for citizens. A clever Dominican friar, Father Gregorio Rocco, had a brilliant idea. He couldn't force people to install street lights, but he knew how devoted Neapolitans were. He encouraged the people to place holy images of the Madonna or Saints on the walls and keep an oil lamp burning constantly to honor them.

The result? The streets became illuminated, crime dropped, and the "holy lights" became the first form of public street lighting in Naples! 🔦🙏

❤️ Adopted by the Neighborhood Today, these shrines are still cared for by the locals. You will often see fresh flowers, photos of loved ones, and lights that never go out. Each shrine belongs to the neighborhood, acting as a spiritual guardian for the specific street.

😉Fun fact: Some say there are over 5,000 of these shrines across the city! Which one is your favorite? Post a photo below! 📸

📍 Travel Tip: The best place to see them? Get lost in the Spaccanapoli area or Rione Sanità at dusk. The atmosphere is mystical!

👇 SAVE THIS POST for your next trip to Naples so you remember to look up! Have you spotted one of these shrines during your visit? Let us know in the comments! 🇮🇹

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