Naples Maradona Guide: the cult places, guided tours and murals

When we talk about football in Naples, we’re really talking about Maradona. His name isn’t just remembered—it’s revered, woven into the city’s soul. For us locals, Maradona is more than a footballer; he’s a symbol of hope, pride, and resilience, especially for a city that’s often felt overlooked. His arrival in the 1980s transformed Napoli…

Spanish Quarter Naples famous Maradona Mural and shops

When we talk about football in Naples, we’re really talking about Maradona. His name isn’t just remembered—it’s revered, woven into the city’s soul. For us locals, Maradona is more than a footballer; he’s a symbol of hope, pride, and resilience, especially for a city that’s often felt overlooked.

His arrival in the 1980s transformed Napoli from underdogs to champions, and his legacy still pulses through every alley and piazza. If you want to understand Naples, you need to walk in Maradona’s footsteps. This guide will walk you through the Maradona shrines, squares, murals and significant spaces you must visit. From the Maradona Museum to Largo Maradona.

The Iconic Maradona Mural in Quartieri Spagnoli

The beating heart of the Maradona cult is the legendary mural in the Quartieri Spagnoli. Painted in 1990 by local artist Mario Filardi, this three-story artwork on Via Emanuele de Deo is more than street art—it’s a place of pilgrimage.

Fans from around the globe leave scarves, stickers, and handwritten notes at the shrine below, creating a living, breathing tribute.

The mural is surrounded by the lively chaos of the Spanish Quarter: scooters whizzing by, laundry fluttering overhead, and the constant hum of Neapolitan life. Every time we pass by, we feel the city’s heartbeat quicken.

Tip: For a deeper dive into the neighbourhood’s character, check out our Spanish Quarter guide.

Maradona Statue in Largo Maradona in the Spanish Quarter

Maradona Museum: Relics of a Legend

Just a few steps from Largo Maradona, you’ll find the Museo Maradona (Vico Cariati 58), a treasure trove curated by the Vignati family, who were close to Maradona during his Napoli years. Inside, you’ll see over 100 authentic pieces: jerseys, boots, the legendary “Live is Life” warm-up jacket, and even his old changing room bench.

Each item tells a story—some funny, some bittersweet, all deeply personal. The museum isn’t flashy, but it’s heartfelt. For any football fan, it’s a must. Book your ticket in advance, as it tends to sell out quickly.

Maradona Murals in the neighborhoods of Naples Old town

Maradona Shrines, Fan Shops & Street Art

Wander through Naples, and you’ll spot Maradona everywhere: mosaics, graffiti, altar candles, and even nativity figurines on Via San Gregorio Armeno. There are even Maradona Spritz Bars, Restaurants and boutique hotels in the typical Neapolitan Bassi. In the Quartieri Spagnoli and Centro Storico, shrines blend football and faith, sometimes with Maradona depicted alongside saints. Yes, there is an Edicola Votiva, with the hair of Maradona revered by locals.

Local bars and cafés display photos, locks of hair, and even Maradona-themed espresso cups. Fan shops sell everything from classic Napoli kits to quirky souvenirs. The devotion is so strong, it feels almost religious.

Don’t miss:

The secret Maradona chapel at the Basilica of Santa Maria della SanitĂ , where a Baroque-inspired painting shows Maradona as a modern-day saint.

Pizzeria Da Michele, one of the legendary Maradona’s favourite spots for a classic Margherita (Just €5).

Maradona Corner Mural in Sanita District

Maradona Mural in Piazza Sanita

While exploring the traditional Sanita District, we found this incredible mural, which is part of a building on Vico Lammatari. This is well known as Maradona’s corner in Barrio SanitĂ . The mural depicts Maradona as a hero, and the funny thing is that it has been commissioned by a young Napoli supporter who has neither seen Maradona in action.

The mural is a testament to the devotion of entire families that hold stories about the champion from father to son. I was taught a lot about Maradona and the golden period of Naples.

Recently, I celebrated myself by becoming two new champions, “scudetto,” which helped me understand the edge of passion. Anyway, exploring the district, you’ll also see many other murals that will let you understand the football passion around here.

Maradona by Jorit

Another great mural of Maradona is in the district of San Giovanni a Teduccio. Away from the shiny city centre, the local and international artist Jorit depicted Maradona on a 10-story building in the outskirts of Naples.

Here, Maradona is in his later days, and resembles in some ways the humanitarian position of El Diego.

Where is the most iconic spot for the Maradona Naples mural, and what makes it special

The most iconic spot for the Maradona Naples mural is at the top of Via Emanuele de Deo in the Quartieri Spagnoli (Spanish Quarter). This massive mural, painted in 1990, towers over a lively square that’s become a true pilgrimage site for football fans. What makes it special isn’t just the art—it’s the atmosphere.

Locals and visitors gather beneath the mural, leaving scarves, notes, and mementoes at the shrine below. The square buzzes with Neapolitan life, blending Maradona’s legacy with the daily rhythm of the city. For us, this mural isn’t just a tribute; it’s a living symbol of hope, pride, and the unbreakable bond between Naples and its beloved football legend. If you want to feel the city’s passion for Maradona, this is where you start.

Experiencing a Napoli Game at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona

Nothing compares to seeing SSC Napoli play at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in Fuorigrotta. On match days, the city transforms: blue flags everywhere, chants echoing from balconies, and thousands streaming toward the stadium. Inside, the atmosphere is electric—waves of singing, drumming, and pure emotion. It’s not just a game; it’s a communal ritual.

How to get tickets:

Buy online via TicketOne or at authorised ticket offices. You’ll need an ID, and tickets often sell out quickly, especially for big matches.

The “Curva” sections (A and B) are the loudest and most passionate, while the “Distinti” offer a good view (Central opposite to the expensive “tribuna”) at a moderate price.

Getting to the Stadium:

Take Metro Line 2 to Campi Flegrei (10-minute walk) or the Cumana line to Mostra-Stadio-Maradona (7-minute walk).

Want the full experience?

Join a local for a match-day tour, including pre-game rituals, chants, and post-match celebrations in local bars.

Local Passion: The Heartbeat of Naples Football

For us (Yep, I am local), football isn’t a pastime—it’s a way of life and a daily topic of friendly and unfriendly discussions. Maradona’s legacy is everywhere, but so is the living, breathing culture of SSC Napoli. From spontaneous street celebrations after a win to the months-long parties after winning the Scudetto, the city’s passion never fades. Even if you’re not a diehard fan, you’ll feel it in the air.

Want to explore more neighbourhoods?

Our Rione SanitĂ  guide and one-day itinerary offer more local insights.

Plan Your Maradona Tour in Naples

DIY or Guided?

You can explore the Maradona sites on your own, but guided tours offer stories, context, and access to hidden spots you might otherwise miss. If short on time go on a guided tour, as you will condense long walks without getting lost. Instead, if adventure is your core, get through the maze of the streets is a must do, and there are always new murals popping up in the city. Yes, even today, after several years from the magic of Maradona in Naples.

Essential Stops for Your Maradona Tour in Naples:

  • Maradona mural and shrine in Quartieri Spagnoli
  • Museo Maradona
  • Stadio Diego Armando Maradona (outside and, if possible, inside)
  • Maradona shrines and fan shops in the Centro Storico
  • Maradona-themed bars and cafĂ©s
  • The secret chapel at Santa Maria della SanitĂ 

Need more inspiration?