Concert at the Teatro di San Carlo in Naples, Italy

A look back (first published March 17 2015): when this was written the San Carlo was virtually hidden behind scaffolding. I saw the theatre a few days ago and, although still under repair externally, the bandaging is much lighter now.

The Phraser

Teatro di San Carlo, Naples, Italy Teatro di San Carlo, Naples, Italy

The Teatro di San Carlo in Naples is the world’s oldest working theatre and still ranks amongst its most famous opera houses.  I’m no opera expert but if I close my eyes and imagine an opera house I see it with glamour, gold and balconies of red.  The Teatro di San Carlo has all that.

A few weeks ago we were treated to a concert there.  First we had to find the theatre.

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Naples loves music

A look back (first published 10 February 2015)

The Phraser

Buskers in Naples Buskers in Naples

Naples loves to have music – classical music, world music, new music, Neapolitan songs – music from palazzo to piazza, music that breaks your heart and throws you up to the sky all at once.

Take a stroll down Via Toledo any day of the week and the chances are that somebody somewhere will play you a tune and they’ll play it well.

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2015: Pope Francis to spend whole day in Naples, Italy

San Gennaro, patron saint of Naples, being positioned for the Pope's visit

San Gennaro, patron saint of Naples, being positioned for the Pope’s visit

Popes do visit Naples but not often and usually their presence is connected with some disaster in the city.

This time Pope Francis has chosen to spend a day here and he’ll include one of Naples’ most troubled suburbs – Scampia.

I was in Naples today with less than 24hours until the Pope’s arrival.

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