Naples is one of the ancient cities founded by about 600 BCE. It was the center of Greek culture and as a pleasure resort for a succession of emperors and wealthy Romans. The city played a major role in merging the Greek and Roman societies. In 1861 Naples joined the Kingdom of Italy as part of the Italian unification. After the unification, millions of people emigrated from Naples to other parts of Italy. Because of the poor living conditions, especially health conditions. The twelve terrible epidemics of cholera and typhoid fever caused the death of more than 48,000 people in half in the half-century from 1834–1884. Then in 1884, Naples fell victim to a major cholera epidemic, caused largely by the city’s poor sewerage infrastructure. In the late 19th century, the government took major steps that completely transformed the city.

Have a look at these stunning historical photos that show what Naples looked like in the 19th century.