THIS narrative does not aspire to be a complete or learnédhistory of Naples, neither does it attempt to be anexhaustive 'tourist guide' of this fascinating city (thereis a number of excellent guides for the curious). This is simplyour perspectives of an amazing place and its surrounds: fromstories of the mythical and pre-historical, through some of thehistorical accounts of the intervening centuries, to aphotographic account of today. We just want to share our viewsand experiences and to celebrate what we have come to knowbetter to be a place that is clearly wonderfully vibrant,challenging, and deeply enigmatic. And we want to say ringraziamolto--'a big thank you'--to Partenope and to the people of thismarvellous city.