Caserta​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 21 November 2023
The city of Caserta is the capital city of the Province of Caserta with a population of 75,430 inhabitants.

Standing at an elevation of 68 metres above sea level, it covers a total area of 54 km² and lies 33 kilometres north of Naples, the regional capital of Campania.

When it comes to sightseeing, there's only one place to start: the Royal Palace of Caserta, known locally as "La Reggia di Caserta", one of the main tourist attractions in Campania.
​Since 1997 La Reggia has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site and draws visitors from far and wide. Dubbed the "Versaille of Naples", the palace is situated just at the edge of the city centre, a ten minute walk from Caserta Cathedral - Il Duomo di San Michele Arcangelo. 

A visit to the Royal Palace starts with the palace itself with its grand staircases and Baroque apartments but it is perhaps the incredible garden which leaves the longest-lasting impression. From the palace building to the end of the garden is a distance of some three kilometres, taking on average 45 minutes to walk. Along the length of the garden there are fountains, statues and perfectly-manicured lawns which make this one of the finest gardens in Italy.
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Profile
Caserta is a charming town located in the Campania region of southern Italy. It is best known for its iconic Royal Palace of Caserta, one of the most remarkable palaces in Europe. ​
History
Caserta has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The town's origins are believed to be connected to the ancient city of Capua, which was an important Roman settlement. However, the town's real fame came in the 18th century when King Charles VII of Naples (later known as King Charles III of Spain) decided to build a grand royal residence away from the congested city of Naples.
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Royal Palace of Caserta: Undoubtedly the main attraction, the Royal Palace of Caserta is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. The palace was designed by the architect Luigi Vanvitelli in the mid-18th century and took over 70 years to complete. It boasts over 1,200 rooms, lavish gardens, and an impressive 120-meter-long grand staircase.
  • Casertavecchia: This medieval village is located on a nearby hill overlooking the modern town of Caserta. Its narrow streets, ancient buildings, and charming atmosphere make it a delightful place to explore.
  • San Leucio Complex: Close to Caserta, the San Leucio Complex is another historic site worth visiting. It was an important silk manufacturing center and a social experiment initiated by King Ferdinand IV of Naples. The complex includes a silk mill, a royal palace, and a theatre.
  • Caserta Cathedral: The Cathedral of Caserta, dedicated to Saint Michael the Archangel, is an elegant church with beautiful interiors and an impressive facade.
  • Local Cuisine: Caserta offers an opportunity to indulge in the delicious Campanian cuisine, including traditional dishes like pizza, pasta, and buffalo mozzarella.
  • Capua Archaeological Park: Just a short distance from Caserta, visitors can explore the ancient Roman ruins in Capua, including an amphitheater and other archaeological remains.
Comune di Caserta
Province: Caserta​

Region: Campania

Population: 72,485 (in 2024 - source)

​​​​​​​​​​Size: 53 km²

Elevation: 68 metres

Highlights: Royal Palace of Caserta, Caserta Cathedral

Close by: Campano Amphitheatre, Capua, Guardia Sanframondi

Recommended accommodation: ​​Hotel Royal Caserta

Caserta  Travel

Reaching La Reggia by train is simple with the city's main station just a 5 minute walk across the square from the main entrance. Naples is a 49 minute journey away while you can also reach Benevento (59 minutes) or Salerno (1 hour 3 minutes) without having to change trains.

The most convenient airport for Caserta is Naples Capodichino/Naples International Airport which is 30 kilometres away; a car journey of just 26 minutes.
​Public transport: ​​​central train station, local buses

By train: ​​​​Naples - 49 mins, Benevento - 59 mins, Salerno - 1 hr 3'
By car: ​​Naples - 32 mins (34 km), Avellino - 46 mins (59 km)

Fly to: ​​Naples International Airport - 1 hr 15 mins by car (94 km)

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