The Renaissance tour of Naples begins at one of the city’s most extraordinary landmarks: the magnificent Triumphal Arch of Castel Nuovo (Maschio Angioino), a masterpiece of Renaissance art commissioned by Alfonso of Aragon in the mid-15th century to celebrate his triumphant entrance into Naples. This spectacular monument reflects the political prestige and cultural importance of the Aragonese capital.
Tracing the Renaissance heritage of Naples is not always straightforward, as the city was heavily transformed during the Baroque period. However, with our expert guides specialized in Art History, you will uncover hidden details, symbols, and masterpieces that reveal a refined and surprising Renaissance side of Naples.
A key stop will be the area south of Spaccanapoli, known as the “Decumano del Mare,” rich in remarkable Renaissance testimonies: the Monumental Complex of Santa Maria la Nova, with its evocative cloister where tradition places the alleged tomb of Count Dracula; the Renaissance loggia of San Giovanni Maggiore, a perfect example of architectural layering across different periods; and the extraordinary Church of Sant’Anna dei Lombardi, an authentic treasure trove of art featuring a sacristy entirely frescoed by Giorgio Vasari, along with noble family tombs and the famous sculptural group of the Lamentation over the Dead Christ.
The itinerary will continue to the façade of the Church of Gesù Nuovo, whose distinctive piperno stone ashlar hides symbols and inscriptions linked to the guilds of master stonecutters, before crossing the entire Spaccanapoli to reach Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, one of the liveliest squares in the city, where you may enjoy a traditional sfogliatella pastry or an authentic Neapolitan coffee.
The tour will conclude in the elegant Church of Sant’Angelo a Nilo, home to one of the most important Renaissance masterpieces in Naples: the funerary monument of Cardinal Brancacci, attributed to the hand of the great master Donatello.
An exclusive experience through Renaissance art, architecture, history, and fascinating stories, perfect for travelers who wish to discover a lesser-known yet incredibly rich side of Naples, accompanied by a private expert guide.
- The triumphal Arch of Alfonso: it is the entrance to the Castel Nuovo and shopws the entrance to the city too!
- Santa Maria la Nova church: a great decorative project, from Renaissance to 16th century, both inside and outside
- San Giovanni Maggiore church: even if isn’t used as a church anymore, it still shows the several layers of the city
- Sant’Anna dei Lombardi church: the real tuscany Renaissance casket of the city, you’ll be dazzled at every corner!
- Gesù Nuovo square & church: the facade of the church is the perfect background to its omonymous church
- Sant’Angelo a Nilo church: the master Donatello created an amazing project for this church
- Guided tour by an expert Art Historian and licensed tour guide
- Design and creation of the tour
- Authorized Guide service
- Archaeologist/Art Historian
- Insurance