Palazzo Firrao Ground Floor Red Suite CAV

Palazzo Firrao dates to Naples' mid-16th-century expansion, ordered by Viceroy Don Pedro Alvarez de Toledo, and the Firrao family renovated it in the 17th century. Its Baroque piperno and marble façade has seven marble busts of the Habsburgs, along with symbols of power and tributes to the monarchy. Inside, the 16th-century staircase remains, as does a courtyard with architraved openings. Masaniello's followers spared the palace in 1647; it later belonged to the Sanseverino and Spinelli families. After more than a century as a public office, it has recently become a residential building.

I spent two nights there with nine friends, spread across four apartments, and each one was prettier than the one before. They're right in the center, a few steps from the metro in a lively neighborhood, but set inside, so you can't hear a thing. Excellent stay. I'd recommend it to anyone visiting Naples.

The renovation was expertly done, and the courtyard has become a magnificent venue for events.

I went to a lovely theatrical performance in the courtyard of this historic Neapolitan palace. The series runs through the end of July, with several shows. I'll definitely come back to see another one.