The neighborhood, located in the historic part of the city, is characterized by a network-like layout descending from the hill on which Castel Sant’Elmo stands. The quarter was built in the 16th century as a housing project for the castle guards, initiated by the viceroy Pedro de Toledo. The Spanish military garrison stationed there was responsible for suppressing any rebellion from the Neapolitan population.

The neighborhood also served as temporary housing for soldiers passing through Naples on their way to other conflict zones, and at the same time as public housing for the many residents who came during those years from the surrounding rural areas to settle in the kingdom’s capital.

Over time, the Spanish Quarter, due to its high population density and building congestion, became a social and crime hotspot. In recent years, the area has begun to undergo rehabilitation, also from a tourism perspective. A considerable number of students from the city’s universities—both Italian and foreign—have begun to settle there, renting apartments or single rooms. This, along with the opening of new shops and restaurants, small fish and vegetable markets, and a new metro station, has contributed to the area’s revival.