This book offers a comprehensive, interdisciplinary exploration of Naples, a city of profound historical depth and multifaceted complexity, situated at the crossroads of European and Mediterranean history. Spanning from the Late Middle Ages to the present day, it delves into the intricate relationship between power, society, and urban transformation that has shaped its distinctive identity.

Moving beyond traditional narratives, the volume presents a blend of diachronic narrative and thematic insights into key aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural history. It traces Naples' assertion as the capital of an early-centralized kingdom, charting its physical evolution and economic and social fabric. It also examines the city's complex search for a redefinition of its role in the post-Unification era—a crucial turning point in its history—ultimately providing the reader with the coordinates for deciphering the history of a city whose image is heavily influenced by myths and stereotypes.

The Routledge Handbook of the History of Naples serves as a valuable resource for scholars and postgraduates specializing in urban history, Mediterranean studies, and Italian history, offering fresh perspectives and rigorous methodologies. Its clear approach also makes it highly useful for undergraduates and non-specialist readers, including booksellers and librarians, seeking a deeper understanding of Naples' enduring legacy.