Ep 3. Murder Tunnels
- TV-PG
- September 21, 2021
- 41 min
In "Cities of the Underworld" Season 4 Episode 3, titled "Murder Tunnels," viewers are taken on a journey beneath the streets of Naples, Italy, to explore the dark and mysterious world of the city's tunnel networks. The episode delves into the "decumani," or ancient Roman streets of Naples, which served as the foundation for a labyrinth of secret tunnels and catacombs that extend deep beneath the city.
The episode begins with host Don Wildman discussing the city's gruesome past, including the notorious murders that were once carried out in these underground passageways. Viewers learn how the tunnels were used for various nefarious activities over the centuries, including smuggling, piracy, and even secret religious rites. The episode also explores the role of the tunnels in World War II, when they served as bomb shelters and hiding places for both civilians and military personnel.
Throughout the episode, Wildman is joined by local archaeologists and historians who provide fascinating insights into the city's underground history. One of the highlights of the episode is a visit to the Catacombs of San Gennaro, one of the most famous underground burial sites in Naples. Here, viewers can see intricate frescoes and sculptures that have been preserved for centuries, and learn about the unique burial customs of ancient Naples.
Another interesting segment of the episode takes viewers to the Bourbon Tunnel, a massive underground complex that was built in the 1850s as a means of transporting goods across the city. Wildman and his guests explore the many hidden rooms and passageways of the tunnel, as well as the strange graffiti and markings left by workers and inhabitants over the years.
Overall, "Murder Tunnels" offers a thrilling and informative look into the hidden world beneath Naples, revealing the many secrets and mysteries that lie just beneath the surface of this historic city. Viewers are sure to be both fascinated and horrified by the darker aspects of Naples' underground, while also gaining a newfound appreciation for the incredible engineering feats that made these tunnels possible.