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Giugliano in Campania is a significant city and comune (municipality) in the Metropolitan City of Naples, located in the Campania region of Italy. It holds the distinction of being the most populated Italian city that is not a provincial capital.

Here is a brief overview of the city, its history, and what to see:

Quick Facts

Location: Metropolitan City of Naples, Campania, Italy.
Population: Around 124,000 inhabitants (as of 2025).
Nicknames: The city is sometimes called “The city of the melannurca apple” (a local type of apple) and “The City of the Fable,” in honor of the famous Italian fabulist Giambattista Basile, who is buried in the city.
Coastal Area: The municipality includes a section of the Domitian coast, with frazioni (subdivisions) like Lago Patria, Varcaturo, and Licola.

History Highlights

The area where Giugliano stands has deep historical roots, particularly with the Romans:

Ancient Liternum: Near the modern locality of Lago Patria, the ancient Roman city of Liternum was established as a Roman colony in 194 BC.
Scipio Africanus: The town is perhaps most famous as the final residence of the great Roman general Scipio Africanus (the Elder), who retired from Rome and died in Liternum.
Medieval Period: After being destroyed by the Vandals, the area was governed by various feudal families, including the Vulcano, Filomarino, and Colonna families.
Modern Name: In 1863, after the unification of Italy, the suffix “in Campania” was added to the name “Giugliano” to differentiate it from other places with the same name.

What to See in Giugliano in Campania

While many nearby popular attractions are located in Naples (like the National Archaeological Museum or Pompeii), Giugliano itself offers several points of interest:

Historical Sites & Architecture

Church of Santa Sofia (Chiesa di Santa Sofia): A significant religious building, originally designed by Domenico Fontana and completed by Domenico Antonio Vaccaro in the 17th century. It is the burial place of the famous fabulist Giovan Battista Basile.
Church of the Annunziata (Chiesa dell’Annunziata): Documented since the 16th century, this church houses several paintings by notable Neapolitan artists.
Archaeological Area of Liternum: Explore the ruins of the ancient Roman colony, including the remains of the Roman forum, a temple, and a basilica.
Historic Center: Stroll through the charming old town with its narrow streets, basalt-paved alleys, and 17th and 18th-century architecture.

Nature and Leisure

Lago Patria: A coastal lake that is not volcanic in origin but formed behind sand dunes. The surrounding area is part of the Liternum Natural Park and offers a coastal stretch of sandy beach.
Water Parks: The area is home to family-friendly attractions like Acquapark Free Time and Gloria Village.

Local Culture

Cuisine: The city is known for its food, reflecting the local culinary tradition with a variety of delicious seafood dishes and authentic pizzas. You’ll also find establishments that celebrate a more modern, funky vibe.