Journey through Naples, Capri, and Genoa, uncovering the hidden cinematic gems of Sorrentino’s latest masterpiece.
November 17, 2024 – Travel, Italy
In the heart of Naples, a place where ancient legends blend with everyday life, filmmaker Paolo Sorrentino found his muse for Parthenope. The film, set to release in March 2025, is an ode to the city’s dual nature—its harsh beauty, its contradictions, and its ability to feel both intimate and grand. Sorrentino’s Parthenope is a journey through Naples and beyond, revealing places where dreams and reality merge.
“Naples is like a city of fantasy; its power lies in a constant theatricality,” Sorrentino says. Through Parthenope, he opens doors to the private villas, hidden pools, and forgotten alleys that make Naples a place of raw beauty and dramatic contrasts.
The Film’s Secret Locations
The Heart of Naples
The journey begins in the winding alleys of Naples. Shot over ten weeks, Sorrentino’s lens captured the intense character of Spaccanapoli, the bustling Via San Carlo, and the picturesque Santa Lucia neighborhood. Each frame reveals a different side of Naples, from the aristocratic elegance of historic palaces to the gritty, vibrant life in the city’s alleys. The scenes extend to the iconic Via Parthenope, where the beaches and University Federico II come into view. Even a secluded cave in Mergellina, inspired by Capri’s legendary 1980s nightclub culture, finds its way into the film’s eclectic visual story.
The Villas of Posillipo
Much of Parthenope revolves around the luxurious yet haunting villas of Posillipo, each steeped in history and character. Villa Rocca Matilde, also known as Villa Lauro, with its own private beach, embodies this allure. Once owned by Achille Lauro, a notable shipping magnate, the villa stands in opulent decay. Its contrast of faded grandeur against the stunning Mediterranean backdrop speaks to Naples’ layered past and enduring beauty. Villa Grotta Marina, another remarkable site, opens its doors to reveal ancient fish ponds and grottoes, adding a timeless, almost mythical element to Parthenope’s story. This 17th-century villa, the home and studio of artist Nicola Rivelli, seems carved from the cliffs, where the sea meets the tuff stone.
The Hidden Pool of Riva Verde
Among the most striking scenes in Parthenope are those shot at a secluded villa on Posillipo’s coast, near Riva Verde. This villa, its pool carved directly into the rock, remains untouched by modern renovations, giving it an untamed, natural beauty. Its rawness reflects the dual spirit of Naples—a city that resists polish yet dazzles with authenticity. The pool scenes here encapsulate Naples’ blend of elegance and rugged charm.
Beyond Naples: Capri and Genoa
Sorrentino’s love letter to southern Italy extends beyond Naples. On Capri, scenes were filmed at the Faraglioni rock formations and the beach near Punta Carena Lighthouse in Anacapri, locations that mirror the island’s wild, natural beauty. In Genoa, the production recreated Naples’ historic alleys, using the city’s narrow, winding streets as a stand-in for some of Naples’ more inaccessible spots. The result is a beautifully blended setting that captures the essence of Italian life, both grand and gritty.
A Journey for Fans: The Sorrentino Tour
To honor Parthenope and the incredible locations it showcases, Naples has introduced a “Sorrentino Tour” for fans of the director. Starting from Spiaggia delle Monache, the boat tour passes sites like Villa Rivelli, San Pietro ai Due Frati, and iconic grottos from The Hand of God. The tour includes stops at some of Parthenope’s key settings, such as Villa Lauro, offering fans an intimate glimpse into the world Sorrentino has created on screen.
Parthenopemania Takes Over Naples
Beyond just locations, Parthenope has sparked a cultural wave in Naples, with fans clamoring for memorabilia inspired by the film. From Greta Cool statuettes by Ferrigno to the exclusive “Parthenope” pizza by Enzo Coccia, the movie has spurred a wave of creativity across the city. T-shirts printed with quotes from the film and “I Love Sorrentino” phone cases are popping up in local shops, adding to the film’s growing influence.
With Parthenope, Sorrentino has crafted a journey that feels both intimate and epic. By capturing Naples’ hidden corners and historic villas, he invites viewers to experience the city in all its intensity—its beauty, its grit, and its relentless energy. For travelers and fans alike, these secret locations reveal the soul of a city that captivates as much as it challenges.
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