Castle of Sant'Elmo

Castel Sant’Elmo, located on the Vomero hill in Naples, is a majestic medieval fortress that offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the Gulf of Naples. This castle, with its characteristic six-pointed star shape, is one of the most impressive examples of Renaissance military architecture. The first traces of a fortified structure on the site date back to the second half of the 13th century, during the reign of Charles I of Anjou. However, it was Robert of Anjou who commissioned the Sienese architect Tino di Camaino to expand the castle in 1329. The original project included a fortified palace, known as Palatium castrum, which was completed under the reign of Joanna I of Anjou. The castle was then severely damaged by an earthquake in 1456, but was rebuilt and expanded under Aragonese and later Spanish rule.Between 1537 and 1547, the Spanish viceroy Don Pedro de Toledo initiated a complete reconstruction of the castle, entrusting the work to the Valencian military architect Pedro Luis Escrivà. It was during this period that the castle took on its iconic six-pointed star shape, an innovative structure that sparked much criticism at the time but proved extremely effective from a defensive standpoint. The star shape allowed for better placement of artillery and greater resistance to sieges.Castel Sant’Elmo played a strategic role in numerous historical events. During the Neapolitan Revolution of 1799, the castle was occupied by revolutionaries who proclaimed the Neapolitan Republic. In the 19th century, the castle was used as a prison by the Bourbons and later by the National Guard. Among the illustrious prisoners was the philosopher Tommaso Campanella, accused of heresy.The castle underwent further modifications and restorations over the centuries, especially after an explosion caused by lightning in 1587 that destroyed much of the structure. The reconstruction was entrusted to the architect Domenico Fontana, who between 1599 and 1601 restored the castle, maintaining its original structure and grandeur.Today, Castel Sant’Elmo is an important cultural and museum center. It houses the Museum of the 20th Century, which exhibits works by Neapolitan artists of the 20th century, including sculptures, paintings, and graphic experiments by authors such as Enrico Baj and Mimmo Paladino. The castle also hosts temporary exhibitions, festivals, and cultural events that further enrich the cultural offerings of Naples.A visit to Castel Sant’Elmo offers not only an immersion in history and military architecture, but also unforgettable views. From the Piazza d’Armi, a large panoramic terrace, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view that encompasses the entire city, Mount Vesuvius, and the Gulf of Naples. This panoramic viewpoint is one of the most suggestive in the city, offering unique photographic opportunities and an unparalleled perspective on the beauty and complexity of Naples.To reach Castel Sant’Elmo, visitors can use the Montesanto or Chiaia funiculars, which lead directly to the Vomero hill. The castle is open to the public every day, except Tuesdays, and offers various visiting options, including tourist guides in different languages.