Certosa di San Martino
By Dion Protani
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Latest update: 15 January 2024
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The Certosa di San Martino is one of a cluster of sights situated in the Vomero area of Naples. The former monastery is now a museum and is just a few steps away from the Castel Sant'Elmo.
Both the castle and the monastery are important stops for any serious exploration of the city and are recommended to visit as a pair on the same day. |
Apart from the fascinating historic and artistic exhibits on display at the Certosa itself, the building's position on the hill overlooking Naples makes it a popular spot from which to view the city. The Belvedere San Martino just in front of its entrance is one of the most famous panoramic viewpoints in Naples providing the iconic view of the city with Mount Vesuvius in the background.
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The Certosa di San Martino, also known as the Charterhouse of San Martino, is a former Carthusian monastery and a stunning historic complex situated on a hill overlooking the city of Naples, Italy. It is one of the most important and impressive monuments in Naples, boasting breathtaking views of the city and the Bay of Naples.
The Certosa di San Martino is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture. The complex consists of a church, a cloister, a museum, and extensive gardens. The church, with its ornate façade and intricate interiors, showcases the grandeur of the Baroque style.
The cloister, with its tranquil and harmonious design, provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors to explore. The museum houses a vast collection of artworks, artifacts, and historical objects, offering insights into the history and culture of Naples.
The Certosa di San Martino is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture. The complex consists of a church, a cloister, a museum, and extensive gardens. The church, with its ornate façade and intricate interiors, showcases the grandeur of the Baroque style.
The cloister, with its tranquil and harmonious design, provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere for visitors to explore. The museum houses a vast collection of artworks, artifacts, and historical objects, offering insights into the history and culture of Naples.
History
The Certosa di San Martino was founded in the 14th century as a Carthusian monastery. It served as a place of meditation, prayer, and seclusion for the Carthusian monks who lived there. Over the centuries, the complex underwent several renovations and expansions, with its grand Baroque appearance taking shape in the 17th and 18th centuries.
In the early 19th century, during the French occupation of Naples, the monastery was secularized and converted into a military barrack. In the mid-20th century, the complex was restored and transformed into a museum, showcasing its remarkable art and historical collections.
In the early 19th century, during the French occupation of Naples, the monastery was secularized and converted into a military barrack. In the mid-20th century, the complex was restored and transformed into a museum, showcasing its remarkable art and historical collections.
Key features and nearby attractions
- Opening Hours: The complex is generally open to visitors from Tuesday to Sunday. It is closed on Mondays.
- Entrance Fee: There is an entrance fee to access the museum and the rest of the complex. The ticket usually includes access to the church, the cloister, the museum, and the gardens.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours may be available in multiple languages, providing in-depth insights into the history and significance of the complex.
- Accessibility: Some parts of the complex may not be fully accessible to visitors with mobility issues due to stairs and uneven terrain.
- Views: The Certosa di San Martino offers stunning panoramic views of Naples and the surrounding area, making it a must-visit spot for photographers and sightseers.
Certosa e Museo di San Martino
City: Naples
Province: Metropolitan City of Naples Region: Campania Built: 1368 Architectural style: Baroque Close by: Castel Sant'Elmo, Piazza del Plebiscito, Castel Nuovo Recommended accommodation: NapoliMia Hotel |