After years of stops and starts, the project that has torn up just about every major piazza in the city is finally back in full swing. And the long awaited expansion of Naples’ metro system that will presumably propel the city into the future has serendipitously given us a birds-eye view into its past.

Immersed in the wonderful world of the Baroque – or some hybrid thereof, almost seven centuries of stylistic and architectural changes are layered on top (and below) a Gothic skeleton.

Located just off Piazza del Gesù, the 14th century Gothic Santa Chiara Church is one of the most beautiful and beloved churches in Naples, Italy.

The New Year here in Napoli starts out with a bang, and I do mean that quite literally.