Naples boasts a rich history that dates back to its founding by Greek settlers in the first millennium BC. As the regional capital of Campania, it has played a significant role in the cultural and political history of Italy. Over the centuries, it has been a crucible of civilizations, witnessing the rise and fall of empires and serving as a center for art, architecture, and gastronomy. Its historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with ancient ruins, medieval castles, and Renaissance palaces, reflecting its diverse past and significance through the ages.