true treasure chest of stories and secrets, the Royal Palace of Naples represents a living testimony of the families that have shaped the city and that continue to tell us their story. Built at the beginning of the 17th century thanks to the mastery of the architect Domenico Fontana, the Royal Palace has seen the Spanish viceroys, the Bourbons, the Murats and finally the Savoys pass under its roof. Each era has left an indelible mark, transforming the palace into a stage of elegance and beauty capable of making Naples one of the most glittering cities in Europe. Charles of Bourbon, in love with Partenope and the spontaneity of its people, did not limit himself to governing: he transformed the Palace into a sumptuous work of art capable of fascinating and attracting to this day. The Throne Room with its gilded stucco and breathtaking details is just a small taste of the sumptuousness that awaits you. The Royal Chapel and the Vittorio Emanuele III National Library are true cultural treasures within walls that guard much more than you think. Art and mystery are inextricably intertwined, marrying the particularity of the Neapolitan soul. According to a legend that is still alive and current, inside the Royal Palace the ghost of the Bourbon King still wanders in search of company. Are you ready for an authentic journey through time, an experience capable of surprising you with the peculiarities that we will discover in this article?
The history and rooms of the Palace
Rooms not to be missed
Throne Room: center of the palace, decorated with frescoes and gilded stucco, is where the sovereigns received their guests. The magnificent throne in the center of the room is a symbol of power and grandeur.
Ambassadors’ Room: place of ceremonies and official audiences, it is adorned with portraits of rulers and mythological frescoes that tell stories of grandeur and importance.
Court Theater: a small theater in neoclassical style, where the royal family entertained themselves with private shows. Today, it is an intimate venue for cultural events and performances.
Biblioteca Nazionale Vittorio Emanuele III: founded in 1804, it is one of the largest libraries in Italy. With over a million volumes, it offers a serene environment for lovers of reading and history.
Giardini Reali: a corner of tranquility overlooking the Gulf of Naples, designed in Baroque style. Stroll among fountains and flower beds, and discover a perfect space for moments of relaxation.
The Iconic Statues
The statues on the facade of the Palace, commissioned by King Umberto I, represent historical figures (such as Roger II the Norman and Victor Emmanuel) capable of celebrating an important legacy. An old Neapolitan rumor has it that the figures placed outside the palace representing Charles V of Habsburg, Charles III of Bourbon, Gioacchino Murat and Victor Emmanuel II are involved in a hilarious conversation that we suggest you discover on the spot. Naples is ultimately ready to welcome you with the tradition and hilarity that has always distinguished it.
The Romantic Garden
The Romantic Garden, designed in the nineteenth century, is an oasis of lush greenery capable of offering your visit an enchanting glimpse of the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius on the horizon. Walking among centuries-old trees, elegant fountains and colorful flowers, if you are lucky you will come across some cultural event capable of enlivening your path with unique and intense emotions. Let yourself be enveloped by the charm of a distant time and find out more here.
La Fortuna by Giuseppe Canart
Free visit on the First Sunday of the month
If you are flexible enough in organizing your trip, arriving in Naples on the first weekend of the month could be a winning move. In fact, on the first Sunday of every month, thanks to the “Domenica al Museo” initiative, you can visit the Palace for free. We recommend arriving early to avoid queues, but there is no doubt about the rest: you will be able to enjoy an unforgettable day immersed in history and culture completely free of charge.
Conclusion
In short, the Royal Palace of Naples is a treasure that tells the story of the grandeur and complexity of Neapolitan history. Visiting it means taking a journey through the centuries, discovering fascinating stories and timeless beauties.
After a day of exploration, our Boutique Hotel will be the ideal place to find some refreshment. We are the perfect choice for a luxury stay that encompasses the main tourist attractions of the Neapolitan scenario with services designed to best accompany you. We can provide you with everything you need, from aluminum water bottles to quench your thirst to practical and comfortable e-bikes to wander around the city’s wonders.
Naples is a center full of emotions and we are ready to share them with you.
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