The Naples Aquarium in Naples is a center for marine life, situated within the Villa Comunale along the city’s seashore. Established in 1874, it is one of the oldest aquariums globally, serving as a public attraction and a scientific institution dedicated to marine research and education. The aquarium aims to observe sea organisms, entertain visitors, and contribute to marine science.
Main Attractions and Exhibits
The Naples Aquarium showcases a diverse array of marine life, with a particular focus on species found in the Mediterranean Sea, including those from the Gulf of Naples. Its tanks are directly connected to the sea through an underground channel, a system designed by William Alford Lloyd. This setup maintains a natural environment for nearly 200 different species of fish and corals.
Visitors can explore various Mediterranean habitats within the aquarium, observing creatures adapted to different depths and environments. Recent additions include tanks dedicated to tropical species, such as clownfish, anemones, corals, and gobies, illustrating the phenomenon of symbiosis and the impact of rising water temperatures. The aquarium also features exhibits on deep-sea life, including species from the Dohrn Canyon, a submarine canyon located just 12 miles from Naples, which hosts organisms like giant oysters and ratfish at depths of up to 1,300 meters.
The admission ticket to the Naples Aquarium also grants access to the Darwin-Dohrn Museum (DaDoM). This museum complements the aquarium with interactive stations and multimedia installations on marine evolution, biodiversity, and the significance of oceans. It highlights the research conducted by the Zoological Station, a leading institution in marine biology.
Planning Your Visit
The Naples Aquarium is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors should check the official Dohrn Foundation website for current operating hours. The ticket price includes entry to both the aquarium and the Darwin-Dohrn Museum, with free admission for children aged four and under.
The aquarium is situated within the Villa Comunale, a park easily accessible from various parts of Naples. Visitors can reach it via Metro Line 1 to the Municipio stop, connecting to Line 6 to San Pasquale station, or by several bus lines stopping near Piazza Vittoria or Villa Comunale. While the aquarium is considered small, requiring about an hour to explore, it offers an educational experience.