Palazzo Reale of Naples

The sprawling palazzo sits right on Piazza del Plebiscito as a regal reminder of the reign of the Bourbons in Naples. This is one of four palaces in the area, used when they ruled the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies from 1730 through 1860. This one was designed in the 1600s by the architect Domenico Fontana, who also designed the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, and had a hand in the building of St. Peter's and San Giovanni in Laterano.

Located in the heart of the city, it was the urban royal residence with 30 rooms and opulent atmosphere befitting...well, a king! A highlight is the gorgeous grand staircase, known as the Scalone d'Onore (Staircase of Honor), with intricately decorative marble and a soaring ceiling above. The palace's library is the largest in southern Italy. There is a royal chapel, a theater, and of course the Throne Room with a massive crystal chandelier. The museum on the piano nobile is housed in the Appartamento Storico which served as the royal living quarters. It is filled with neoclassic and Baroque furnishings, artwork, tapestries and porcelain. The chapel displays a nativity scene in the Neapolitan tradition with more than 200 figurines.

The Giardino Romantico (romantic garden) is like an oasis with palm trees, parks and sculptures.

The Royal Palace of Naples is open daily from 9:00 AM til 7:00 PM. Closed Wednesdays.