Certosa di San Martino – the Baroque jewel overlooking Naples and its gulf

Certosa di San Martino – a masterpiece of art and history overlooking the Gulf of Naples

History of the Certosa di San Martino: origins and transformations

The Certosa di San Martino, located on the Vomero hill, is one of the most spectacular and historically rich landmarks in Naples. Originally a Carthusian monastery, today it has been transformed into a museum, offering an unforgettable journey through art, architecture, and spirituality, with a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Naples.

Founded in 1325 by Charles of Anjou, Duke of Calabria, the Certosa was designed by architect Tino di Camaino, already active in the city with important Gothic works. Initially built in Gothic style, the Certosa underwent significant transformations in the 17th century thanks to the intervention of Cosimo Fanzago, a renowned architect and sculptor of Neapolitan Baroque.

Fanzago redesigned the church, the cloisters, and many monastic spaces, enriching them with precious marble, gilded stuccoes, and perspective illusions. He was joined by artists such as Giovan Battista Caracciolo, Massimo Stanzione, and Andrea Vaccaro, creating a collective masterpiece that reflects centuries of art and faith.

What to see at the Certosa di San Martino

The Certosa di San Martino is one of the most important cultural sites in Naples, a place where every space tells a story. Here’s what not to miss during your visit:

1. The Baroque Church A triumph of Baroque art, designed by Fanzago and decorated by great masters such as Luca Giordano and Giovanni Lanfranco. The gilded stuccoes, polychrome marble, and side chapels create a sacred and theatrical atmosphere.

2. The Monumental Cloisters

• Chiostro Grande: one of the most beautiful in Italy, surrounded by Doric columns and ancient monastic cells.
• Chiostro dei Procuratori: more intimate, ideal for a moment of silence.

3. The San Martino Museum Housed within the Certosa, the museum features unique collections:

• Cuciniello Nativity Scene: a masterpiece of 18th-century Neapolitan nativity art.
• Historical models of Naples: scale models showing the city through the centuries.
• Royal and vintage carriages: testimonies of aristocratic life.
• Sacred art: paintings, sculptures, and liturgical furnishings.

4. The Panoramic Belvedere One of the most famous viewpoints in Naples: from the Certosa di San Martino, visitors enjoy an unparalleled view of Mount Vesuvius, the historic center, the islands of Capri and Ischia, and the entire gulf.  

 Curiosities about the Certosa di San Martino

Military barracks after Italian unification: in 1866, following the suppression of religious orders, the complex was converted into a military barracks. It later became a museum.

Symbols and hidden passages: within the walls lie blind windows, secret passages, and mysterious engravings linked to monastic life.

Mentioned by Goethe: in his Italian Journey, Goethe praised the beauty of the panorama seen from the belvedere of the Certosa.

Where is the Certosa di San Martino located: position and views

The Certosa di San Martino is located in Largo San Martino, in the heart of the Vomero district, next to Castel Sant’Elmo. It sits at approximately 150 meters above sea level, in a strategic position that offers unforgettable views of Naples and the sea.

How to get there

Funiculars:

• Montesanto: get off at Morghen, then walk for 10 minutes.
• Central Funicular: stop at Piazza Fuga.
• Chiaia Funicular: less direct, but useful for reaching Vomero.

Metro:

• Line 1, stop at Vanvitelli, then walk for 15 minutes.

On foot:

• Via the Pedamentina di San Martino, a scenic panoramic staircase from the Spanish Quarters.

Taxi or NCC:

• Convenient from any point in the city or from the cruise port.

Where to park near the Certosa

Paid parking: available on Via Morghen, Via Cimarosa, and Piazza Vanvitelli.

Recommended garage: Garage Sant’Elmo, on Via Tito Angelini.

Be aware of the ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone) and the limited availability of free parking spaces. Book online to avoid issues.

Tickets and opening hours of the Certosa di San Martino

Ticket prices:

• Full price: approx. €6
• Reduced (EU citizens aged 18–25): €2
• Free: under 18, school groups, first Sunday of the month

Where to buy:

• On-site at the ticket office
• Online via the official website of the Ministry of Culture or authorized platforms

Opening hours:

• Daily: from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM
• Last entry: at 6:30 PM

Always check for special closures or holiday schedules on the official website.

Napoli Artecard

If you plan to visit multiple museums, consider purchasing the Napoli Artecard, which includes public transport and discounted or free entry to many cultural sites.

How long does a visit to the Certosa di San Martino take?

The recommended duration is 1.5 hours. For those interested in guided tours or audio guides, plan for 2 hours or more.

Anyone who enjoys artistic details, the silence of the cloister, or simply admiring the panorama from the belvedere, will find in this place an experience to be enjoyed without haste.

Conclusion: why visit the Certosa di San Martino

The Certosa di San Martino is not just a place of art: it is a journey through the historical memory of Naples, blending spirituality, architectural wonder, and unforgettable landscapes. Every cloister, every fresco, every carved detail tells a part of the soul of the city.

If you're in Naples, don't miss this corner suspended between sky and sea. The Certosa will offer you one of the most beautiful views in Italy and a plunge into a past that still lives silently within its walls.

Photo credits: romeanditaly.com