Naples is too special, so not everyone can understand it.

— Marcello Mastroianni

Mount Vesuvius looms in the distance, imbuing the Italian city of Naples with an electric charge just beneath the surface. Perhaps this proximity is why the Neapolitan people have an indescribable gusto that seeps into all corners of their lives, from cuisine to sport. And the waters of the Mediterranean balance the scales with a charming seaside spirit. The historic city has become synonymous with creative output such as Paolo Sorrentino’s film The Hand of God and Elena Ferrante’s beloved Neapolitan Novels. Through the pages of Napoli Amore, Cesare Cunaccia—a frequent Assouline contributor—guides the reader on an unforgettable journey of this one-of-a-kind destination.

The Neapolitan identity is so formidable that Naples is often considered as distinct from Italy. This dynamic character, experienced in the streets, the craftsmanship, and the Mediterranean spirit, is on full display in Napoli Amore. In the pages of this book, images by iconic photographers (Herbert List, Mimmo Jodice, Ferdinando Scianna) stand in conversation with those of more contemporary photographers (Sam Gregg, Ciro Pipoli, Brett Lloyd) to paint a portrait of Naples that is as layered as a sfogliatella and as compelling as a Caravaggio.