Parthenope: the myth of the Siren at the Mann, telling the story of Naples

Of particular significance are the artefacts unearthed during the excavations of Lines 1 and 6 of the Naples Metro, many of which are on display for the first time. These artefacts tell the story of the ancient city through architectural fragments, pottery, decorative elements and evidence of daily life, offering new insights into the urban development of ancient Neapolis.

Among the most eagerly awaited works is also the exquisite silver bust of Saint Patrizia, which has been exceptionally loaned to the exhibition. The work temporarily left the museum during the first week of May to take part in the traditional procession dedicated to Saint Januarius, before returning to the exhibition galleries.

A particularly fascinating chapter is devoted to the findings of the Superintendency’s recent archaeological investigations, including the discovery of the sanctuary of the Isolympic Games in the area around Piazza Nicola Amore. It was here, in Roman times, that the lampadoforie took place – torch-lit races that perpetuated the cult of Parthenope, established in the 5th century BC by the Athenian navarch Diotimus – demonstrating how the memory of the siren remained alive for centuries, not least through public rituals.

The exhibition symbolically extends beyond the museum’s galleries to encompass the city. Visitors are invited to rediscover the places that still preserve the memory of the siren: from the famous Spinacorona Fountain, where, until the nineteenth century, women would go to seek protection during childbirth, to the church of San Giovanni Maggiore, traditionally identified as the site of Parthenope’s tomb, right through to the decorations at the Teatro San Carlo, the Galleria Umberto I and the numerous contemporary murals that continue to reinterpret her image.

Finally, visitors are greeted in the MANN’s foyer by a large site-specific installation by the Argentine artist Francisco Bosoletti, conceived specifically for the exhibition and created in full view of visitors, much like a real building site.

More than just an archaeological exhibition, “Parthenope. The Siren and the City” presents itself as a collective narrative on the identity of Naples. It is a journey that weaves together myth, archaeology, art and memory, demonstrating how the figure of the siren continues to represent the city’s most authentic character to this day: suspended between history and legend, capable of reinventing itself without ever losing its charm.

Just as Odysseus did when faced with the Sirens, visitors too are called upon to listen to an ancient voice. But this time, allowing oneself to be enchanted means understanding the deepest roots of a city that, for almost three thousand years, has continued to call itself, with pride, Partenope.

Parthenope. The Siren and the City, curated by Francesco Sirano, Massimo Osanna, Raffaella Bosso and Laura Forte, MANN, Naples, until 31 August.