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Royal Palace Of Naples | A Bourbon Heritage Site
Statues of the King of Naples
The Royal Palace of Naples proudly houses the iconic statue of Roger the Norman. Crafted in the 19th century by sculptor Emilio Franceschi, this exquisite masterpiece immortalises Roger II, a Norman king who left an indelible mark on Southern Italy. The statue, capturing the monarch's regal presence, serves as a beautiful homage to the historical legacy embedded within the walls of the Palace.
Adorning the Royal Palace of Naples is the statue of Frederick II, the Holy Roman Emperor. Sculpted with precision in the 19th century by Emanuele Caggiano, the artwork pays tribute to this mediaeval monarch. With meticulous detail, the statue commemorates Frederick II's profound impact on Naples, encapsulating his imperial legacy in the heart of the historical narrative of this grand Palace.
Within the Royal Palace of Naples, the statue of Charles I of Anjou stands as a regal emblem of the Capetian dynasty. Crafted by Tommaso Solari, the sculpture captures the essence of this influential member of the Capetian Dynasty and commemorates his contribution as Count of Provence and Focalquier. The sculpture stands as a testament to artistry and history, preserving the legacy of Charles I of Anjou.
Alfonso V of Aragon was also famous as King Alfonso the Magnanimous and he ruled Naples from 1442 till his death in 1458. His statue that is on display in the Royal Palace of Naples was sculpted by Achile D’Orsi and it stands as a tribute to his contribution to the arts as well as literature.
Charles V was crowned Holy Roman Emperor in 1519 after the death of his maternal Grandfather Maximillian I. Charles V was an impressive ruler and he had spread his kingdom to a major part of Europe during his rule. His beautiful sculpted statue displayed within the walls of the Royal Palace of Naples is a standing testament to the grandeur of his highly acclaimed monarch who brought about revolutionary changes in his empire.
The statue of Charles III of Spain kept in the Palace of Naples was sculpted by Raffaele Belliazzi. He was the King of Spain from 1759 to 1788 and ruled Naples from 1731 to 1735. On May 10th 1734 Charles III triumphantly entered Naples and with the blessings of the local archbishop became the royal resident of the Royal Palace of Naples.
Gioacchino Murat or Joachim Murat was a military commander who was a major part of the Napoleonic Wars and the French Revolution. Today, his statue stands tall in one of the niches created within the facade of the Palace walls. The statue was sculpted by the then-renowned sculptor Giovanni Battista Amendola.
The statue of Vittorio Emanuele sculpted by Francesco Jerace is the tallest of all the statues and it was also the last addition to this exquisite collection of statues dedicated to former rulers of Naples. Vittorio Emmanuel started his journey as the King of Sardinia and he was a major contributor to the unification of Italy and was victorious in several battles throughout his reign.
What To See Inside The Royal Palace Of Naples?
The Historical Apartments in the Palace of Naples unveil a sumptuous tableau of regal life, with opulent decor and period furnishings dating back centuries. These lavish chambers once housed Bourbon monarchs, including Ferdinand I and Joanna of Naples. Visitors can marvel at the intricate tapestries, grand halls, and royal bedrooms, each echoing the splendour of bygone eras. Dating to the 17th century, these apartments preserve the essence of Naples' royal heritage, offering a glimpse into the lives of kings and queens through the ages. The historical resonance, coupled with the ornate surroundings, makes this a captivating journey through time.
Also Read: Inside Royal Palace of Naples
The National Library within the Royal Palace of Naples is a bibliophile's haven, housing a treasure trove of literary gems that span centuries. Home to over a million volumes, including rare manuscripts and ancient texts, this esteemed institution stands as the intellectual legacy of Naples. Visitors can peruse books dating back to the 13th century, and discover historical, scientific, and artistic works. The library's elegant reading rooms, adorned with antique furniture and intricate frescoes, offer a serene ambience for literary exploration. With a collection that spans hundreds of years, the National Library is a venerable sanctuary within the royal confines of the Palace.
The Courtyard of Honour at the Palace of Naples is a timeless spectacle, dating back to the 17th century. Steeped in history, this grand expanse captivates with its monumental architecture and impressive scale. The courtyard, adorned with statues and fountains, provides a regal welcome to the palace.
Visitors can marvel at the equestrian statue of Charles III and the Royal Staircase, an architectural marvel. Encircled by majestic structures, this historic space stands as a testament to Naples' enduring legacy, offering a captivating glimpse into the grandeur that once graced the royal court.
History Of The Royal Palace Of Naples
Collections at the Royal Palace of Naples
It houses masterpieces from the Royal Tapestry Factory, established by Charles of Bourbon in 1737. Among these are the "Portrait of Charles of Bourbon" and the "Four Elements" series, which were woven with silk threads. Tapestry themes include battle scenes and mythological themes using gold and silver threads and some include hidden symbols and stories revealing royal history and beliefs as well.
These include Charles III's elegant armchairs to Empire-style pieces from the Napoleonic era. The collection highlights a blend of French influence and Baroque revival during the Restoration period. Furnishings include rare inlaid wooden tables and chandeliers as well. Many rooms feature hand-carved cabinets with intricate marquetry, and boasts finely upholstered sofas and gilded mirrors.
It features Massimo Stanzione's "Vestition of S. Aspreno" famed for its emotional depth, and Luca Giordano's captivating "Venus, Love, and a Satyr." Paintings also include works by Caravaggio and Titian, showcasing Baroque and Renaissance masterpieces. One notable painting acquired through auction in 1969 is "The Seven Works of Mercy" by Caravaggio, known for its dramatic use of light and shadow.
It includes rarities like the Clay Machine and the Breguet Regulator Clock known for its unique regulator mechanism and the Jaeger-LeCoultre Atmos Clock celebrated for its perpetual movement, driven by temperature and air pressure changes. Gioacchino and Carolina Murat also contributed notable pieces, such as the French Empire Mantel Clock distinguished by its lavish gilded design.
These feature Giuseppe Canart's "Fortuna" fountain, celebrated for its intricate detailing and dynamic portrayal of luck. The facade boasts iconic Naples' kings’ statues, including Charles of Bourbon which stands approximately 3 meters tall and is renowned for its lifelike detail. You can also see the sculpture of Ferdinand IV who is known for his efforts to stabilize Naples and support the arts.
Architecture & Design of Royal Palace of Naples
The Royal Palace of Naples, also known as Palazzo Reale di Napoli, is an architectural marvel. Completed in the 17th century, it blends Baroque, Neoclassical, and Renaissance styles. Its impressive facade, stretching over 110 meters, showcases intricate detailing by renowned architects such as Domenico Fontana and Luigi Vanvitelli.
Inside, visitors can be captivated by The Throne Room, with its dazzling golden throne custom-crafted for King Charles III. Gilded stucco work and elaborate frescoes depict Naples' illustrious history. Another notable space is the Salon of Hercules, renowned for its chandeliers and the frescoes depicting Hercules' legendary exploits.
Today, the Royal Palace serves as a museum and heritage site. It houses the National Library of Naples and manuscripts such as the De Rerum Natura and Codex Vindobonensis. The palace’s ambiance and history offer aRich History: Wander through the Throne Room for its majestic décor and Hall of Mirrors. Do visit the Royal Chapel for a sacred atmosphere with religious art.
Why Visit Royal Palace Of Naples?
- Art Collections: Marvel at "The Martyrdom of Saint Ursula" by Carlo Dolci for its narrative elements, and "The Triumph of Bacchus" by Diego Velázquez for its dynamic portrayal of classical times.
- Tapestries: Admire the "Four Elements" series renowned for its depiction of nature’s elements and "Portrait of Charles of Bourbon," highlighting the king’s regal stature.
- Impressive Sculptures: View Giuseppe Canart’s "Fortuna" fountain, known for its magnificent pose, and statues of Charles of Bourbon and Ferdinand IV, highlighting regal and artistic mastery.
- Beautiful Furnishings: Explore the French Empire Mantel Clock noted for its gilded bronze details and classical motifs and Louis XVI Carriage Clock, noted for their push-button mechanism for easy transport.
Plan Your Visit To Royal Palace Of Naples
Opening hours: 9 am to 7 pm Tuesdays to Saturday. Last entry being 6 pm
9 am to 6 pm Sundays.
Mondays and other public holidays the Palace remains closed.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Royal Palace of Naples is during the mild seasons of spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant for exploration. These months, from April to June and September to October, offer a comfortable climate to enjoy the outdoor spaces and take in the panoramic views that the Palace offers.
A visit of approximately 2 to 3 hours allows ample time to appreciate the Palace's grand architectural splendour, historical apartments, courtyards, the National Library, and many other attractions ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience.
Read More: Royal Palace of Naples Hours
- By Bus: The bus stop closest to the Palace is the Piazza del Municipio which is just a few minutes walk to the Royal Palace. Naples has a very efficient bus network which is well connected and covers the whole city.
- By Train: The Metro line in Naples has excellent connectivity and the nearest metro station to the Royal Palace of Naples is Municipio Station. You can board Metro Line 1 and from the exit, the Palace is just a few minutes walking distance.
- By Tram: You can board Tram Line 1 to either Piazza Garibaldi or Piazza Municipio. From here the Palace is just a few minutes away.
- By Taxi or Rental Bikes: You can also get to the Royal Palace of Naples by taking a cab or if you enjoy the beautiful Napoli outdoors then just get a rental bike and ride over to the Palace.
More Detailed: How to get to Royal Palace of Naples
- It is best to arrive early in the morning as the Palace is comparatively less crowded just after opening time.
- Indulge in a guided tour so that you can truly appreciate the rich cultural and historical significance of this majestic Palace.
- Visiting during weekdays is highly recommended as it is comparatively less crowded then.
- A must-visit attraction at the Royal Palace of Naples is the Historical Apartment where you can see the ornate decorations and beautiful frescos.
FAQ's
How to get to the Royal Palace of Caserta from Naples?
- By Train: From Naples, you can board a train to reach Caserta which will take an average of 45 minutes to 1 hour. The Caserta Palace is about 5 minutes away from the train station.
- By Bus: You can board a bus from Naples Central Bus Station which is in Piazza Garibaldi to get to Caserta. Buses leave every 15 minutes from Naples for Caserta and it takes about 45 minutes to cover the distance. The Palace is a short 15-minute walk from the bus station.
- By Car: If you are driving you can look up for directions to the Palace of Caserta from Naples and follow the navigation system. The drive will take about 35 to 45 minutes to get to the Palace.
When was the Royal Palace of Naples built?
The present structure of the Royal Palace of Naples was built in the early part of the 1600s and was commissioned by the Viceroy Ferdinand Ruiz de Castro, the Count of Lemos.
Where is the Royal Palace of Naples?
The Royal Palace of Naples is located in central Naples in Piazza del Plebiscito, Italy. The Palace was the residence of the monarchs of the Bourbon dynasty and later it was the seat of power during the Napoleonic era.
How much does it cost to go to the Royal Palace of Naples?
The entrance tickets to the Royal Palace of Naples are about INR 950 per person. For young visitors between the age of 18 to 24 the price is INR 190 and children below the age of 18 can enter free of charge.
Is photography allowed inside the Royal Palace of Naples?
Yes, inside the Royal Palace of Naples, photography is normally permitted. However, there may be restrictions in certain places or for specific displays that prohibit flash photography. Visitors are advised to follow any signage or instructions about photography permissions supplied by palace officials.
How long does it take to explore the Royal Palace of Naples?
To truly appreciate the beauty and grandeur of this imposing Palace you will need to set aside 2 to 3 hours for your visit. You will have enough time to explore the apartments, the royal courtyards, the frescos, the Library, the Museum and many other attractions of the Royal Palace of Naples.
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