Founded in the time of Ancient Greece, Naples [Neapolis = New Town] has weathered many foreign dominations: Greek, Norman, French and Spanish, many of whom preferred Naples to their own more rigid regimes and climates, and merged into the local way of life. Naples is thus a very cosmopolitan city and this is reflected in its architecture, food and culture.
Naples has one of the largest scientific communities in Italy and the largest university hospital in Italy. In Naples there are four Universities, two Schools of Medicine, two international research institutes, and various research institutes of the Italian National Research Council. The University of Naples 'Federico II' which was founded in 1224 is the oldest lay university in the world.
Because of its wealth of art treasures, monuments and buildings, Naples has been nominated a Protected Town by the United Nations. The town boasts the San Carlo Opera House, a number of museums including the National Museum that houses mosaics and other relics from Pompeii, and an intriguing mixture of architectural styles. The islands of Capri, Ischia and Procida are 30 minutes away by hydrofoil, and Pompeii (the most visited site in Europe), Herculaneum, Vesuvius, Sorrento, Positano, Ravello, Amalfi and Paestum are just along the coast. Naples enjoys a pleasant climate all the year round.
Known as Campania felix by the ancient Romans the town has been a meeting point throughout the ages.

Housing
Fellows will be given assistance in finding local accommodation.