Cellammare Palace

Palazzo Cellammare, located in the San Ferdinando district of Naples, is a symbol of splendor and history that spans centuries of events. Built in the early 16th century at the behest of Giovanni Francesco Carafa, abbot of Sant’Angelo di Atella, the palace initially embodied the splendor of the Neapolitan Renaissance. Its position, overlooking the sea and the surrounding hills, made it one of the most privileged places in Naples. The palace underwent numerous renovations and changes of ownership, reflecting the city’s historical turbulence and transformations. During the revolt of Masaniello in the 17th century, the palace was attacked, marking one of the most dramatic episodes in its history. Shortly after, in 1656, the plague epidemic that struck Naples transformed the palace into a lazaretto, highlighting its adaptability to the city’s needs. In the 18th century, the palace was purchased by the Prince of Cellammare, Antonio Statella, who commissioned a series of important restorations and expansions. The architect Ferdinando Sanfelice, famous for his Baroque style, was tasked with transforming the palace into a sumptuous residence, complete with a magnificent monumental staircase and salons decorated with precious frescoes and stuccoes. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the palace became a prominent cultural and social center, hosting numerous social events and welcoming illustrious personalities. Among these were artists, writers, and politicians, who helped make Palazzo Cellammare a hub of cultural activity. Notable visitors included Giacomo Casanova, who stayed at the palace during one of his Neapolitan adventures, and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who visited during his famous trip to Italy. Throughout the 19th century, the palace was further renovated and adapted to the needs of its new owners, the Caracciolo di Avellino princes. The rooms were enriched with new decorations, fine furniture, and works of art, solidifying the palace’s prestige as a noble residence. During this period, Palazzo Cellammare also witnessed important historical events, such as Giuseppe Garibaldi’s visit after the Expedition of the Thousand and the annexation of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies to the Kingdom of Italy. The 20th century marked a period of decline for the palace, which suffered damage during World War II and was partially abandoned. However, thanks to restoration efforts, the palace has regained its former splendor, becoming a place of great historical and cultural interest. Today, Palazzo Cellammare hosts cultural events, art exhibitions, and guided tours, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its rich history and magnificent rooms. One of the most fascinating elements of the palace is its architecture. The facade, characterized by elegant lines and harmonious proportions, reflects Renaissance taste, while the interiors, with their Baroque and Rococo decorations, testify to subsequent stylistic transformations. The inner courtyard, with its two-tiered loggia, is a perfect example of how Neapolitan architecture combines functionality and beauty. Among the curiosities related to the palace, it is said that the Caracciolo family created a series of secret passages and underground tunnels, used to escape enemies or safely reach other family properties. These passages, some of which still exist, add an additional layer of mystery and charm to the palace.