Capua
Latest page update: 2 March 2025
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By Dion Protani
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The town of Capua is located within the Province of Caserta and has a population of 18,293 inhabitants. Covering an area of 49 km², it stands at an elevation of 25 metres above sea level and lies 40 km from Naples, capital of Campania.
The main sights in Capua include the Roman Bridge, the cathedral and the Museo Provinciale Campano di Capua. |
Many visitors come to Capua to see the famous amphitheatre but this is situated in nearby Santa Maria Capua Vetere. However, the above mentioned museum is where many of the relics from ancient Capua are now stored.
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Capua • Campania • Historic Town
Capua is a historic town located in the province of Caserta, Campania, situated to the north of Naples and positioned along the ancient Via Appia. The town is known for its rich history, particularly its significance during Roman times, with impressive archaeological remains that highlight its past as a thriving city. Capua is surrounded by fertile plains, offering scenic views of the nearby countryside, and serves as a gateway to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Capua’s most famous landmark is the ancient Roman amphitheatre, one of the largest in Italy, which offers a glimpse into the town’s historical importance as a centre for entertainment and public life. Visitors can also explore the local museum, which houses artefacts from the town’s long history. The town’s medieval streets and churches, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria, reflect the town’s evolution over the centuries. Capua’s location along the fertile plains also makes it a hub for agriculture, with surrounding vineyards and farmland.
Nearby, the city of Naples offers a wealth of cultural, historic, and artistic landmarks, from the Royal Palace to the National Archaeological Museum. The ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum are also within easy reach, providing further insights into Roman life. The town of Caserta, known for its grand Royal Palace and gardens, is close by, while the peaceful countryside of the Campania region offers hiking opportunities and scenic landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts.
Capua’s most famous landmark is the ancient Roman amphitheatre, one of the largest in Italy, which offers a glimpse into the town’s historical importance as a centre for entertainment and public life. Visitors can also explore the local museum, which houses artefacts from the town’s long history. The town’s medieval streets and churches, such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria, reflect the town’s evolution over the centuries. Capua’s location along the fertile plains also makes it a hub for agriculture, with surrounding vineyards and farmland.
Nearby, the city of Naples offers a wealth of cultural, historic, and artistic landmarks, from the Royal Palace to the National Archaeological Museum. The ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum are also within easy reach, providing further insights into Roman life. The town of Caserta, known for its grand Royal Palace and gardens, is close by, while the peaceful countryside of the Campania region offers hiking opportunities and scenic landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts.
Highlights and nearby attractions
- Capua Amphitheatre: The most iconic attraction in Capua is its ancient amphitheatre, which was the second largest in the Roman Empire after the Colosseum. Today, it serves as a significant archaeological site and offers visitors a chance to explore the ruins of this grand structure.
- Museo Campano: This museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the ancient city of Capua and the surrounding area, providing insights into its historical significance and cultural heritage.
- Capua Cathedral: The town features a beautiful cathedral, the Duomo di Santa Maria Assunta, which exhibits a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque and Baroque.
- Capua Castle: The Castello di Capua, also known as Torre dell'Annunziata, is a medieval fortress that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside.
- Capua Archaeological Park: The town has an archaeological park that encompasses several sites, including the amphitheater, the archaeological area of Santa Maria Capua Vetere, and other Roman ruins.
- Local Cuisine: Capua offers visitors a chance to savor traditional Campanian cuisine, including pizza, pasta dishes, and delectable desserts like sfogliatella and babà.
- Festivals and Events: Capua hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its historical heritage and local traditions.
- Proximity to Other Attractions: Capua's location in the province of Caserta makes it a convenient base for exploring other nearby towns and attractions in the Campania region, including the famous Royal Palace of Caserta.
Comune di Capua
Province: Caserta
Region: Campania Population: 17,791 (in 2024 - source) Size: 49 km² Elevation: 25 metres Highlights: Roman bridge, Capua Cathedral, Museo Provinciale Close by: Campano Amphitheatre, Royal Palace of Caserta Recommended accommodation: Hotel Royal Caserta (12 km) |