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 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 highlight the Faraglioni rock formations and Punta Carena Lighthouse‘s beach. These spots showcase the island’s untamed beauty. In Genoa, narrow streets and alleys were used to replicate Naples’ historic charm. This approach creates a vivid setting, capturing both the grandeur and grit of Italian life.
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 visits iconic Parthenope locations, including Villa Lauro, giving fans an intimate look at Sorrentino’s cinematic world.
Parthenopemania Takes Over Naples
Beyond the locations, Parthenope has sparked a cultural wave in Naples, with fans clamoring for memorabilia inspired by the film. The movie has spurred a wave of creativity across the city, from Greta Cool statuettes by Ferrigno to the exclusive “Parthenope” pizza by Enzo Coccia. T-shirts printed with quotes from the film and “I Love Sorrentino” phone cases are popping up in local shops.
With Parthenope, Sorrentino has crafted an intimate and epic journey. 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 both travelers and fans, these secret locations reveal the soul of a city that captivates as much as it challenges.
