Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Piazza Bellini
(Piazza Bellini; Dante)
One of the best spots to chill with a spritz is this eclectic, bar-
lined square. Featuring ruins from the city's 4th-century Greek city walls, it's a hot spot
for bohemians and best experienced in the evening, when it heaves with uni students, left-
leaning crowds and a healthy dose of flirtatious glances.
The piazza is also home to the roguish Mastiffs, the Napoli football club's hardcore
supporter group. You'll find them arguing the finer points of goalkeeping outside their
headquarters, between literary Intra Moenia (
Click here
)
and raffish Caffè Arabo.
PIAZZA
Chiesa di San Pietro a Maiella
( 081 45 90 08; Piazza Luigi Miraglia 25; 8am-noon; Dante)
Dedicated to her-
mit Pietro del Morrone, who was promoted to Pope Celestine V in 1294, this church de-
livers a striking combo of Gothic restraint and baroque exuberance. The chapel to the left
of the presbytery features 14th-century frescoes by Giovanni Barrile, while the nave is
capped by 10 stunning ceiling paintings by baroque artist Mattia Preti.
Further baroque touches are provided by Cosimo Fanzago, designer of the marble altar,
polychromatic balustrade and transept flooring, as well as Massimo Stanzione, whose
Madonna Appearing to Celestine V
hangs in one of the side chapels on the right. The
Conservatorio di Musica San Pietro a Majella di Napoli - one of Italy's finest music
schools - is housed in the adjoining convent.
CHURCH
CHAPEL
Cappella del Monte di Pietà
(
081 580 71 11; Via San Biagio dei Librai 114;
9am-7pm Sat, to 2pm Sun;
C55
to Via Duomo)
This imposing 16th-century complex was originally home to the Pio
Monte di Pietà, an organisation set up to issue interest-free loans to impoverished debtors.
Its most impressive asset is the perfectly preserved Mannerist chapel and its four richly
decorated side rooms. Flanking the entrance are two sculptures by Pietro Bernini, while
above sits Michelangelo Naccherino's
Pietà
. Inside, striking 17th-century frescoes by
Belisario Corenzio take the breath away.
Piazza San Domenico Maggiore
Offline map
PIAZZA
