Naples Cathedral (Duomo di Napoli): A Comprehensive Travel Guide

The Naples Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta), is also commonly called the Cathedral of Saint Januarius or simply the Duomo di Napoli. It is the city’s most important church, serving as the seat of the Archbishop of Naples and the hub of Neapolitan spiritual life. Planning a visit to Naples? Check out our guide to Things to do in Naples.

Historical Background

The construction of the current impressive Gothic cathedral was commissioned in the 13th century by King Charles I of Anjou, who ascended to the throne of Naples at that time, to showcase the power of the Angevin dynasty. Construction continued under his successors, Charles II (1285–1309), who entrusted the design to French and Italian architects including Giovanni and Nicola Pisano, and was completed in the early 14th century under King Roberto d’Angiò in 1313–14.

The cathedral’s location carries symbolic importance, as it was built on the foundations of previous churches and ancient sites. Two ancient churches previously stood here: the Basilica of Santa Restituta, dating back to the 4th century and considered the oldest church in Naples, and the Basilica of Santa Stefania. Interestingly, only Santa Stefania was demolished; the Basilica of Santa Restituta was incorporated into the new cathedral complex. These buildings had been built on an ancient Roman site, possibly on the ruins of a Roman temple dedicated to the god Apollo. Excavations underneath the building have revealed Greek and Roman artefacts.

Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone a series of renovations, rebuilds and architectural changes due to factors like earthquakes, changing fashions and styles, and damage from events such as Allied air raids during World War II. This has resulted in a blend of architectural styles, layering Baroque ornamentation over the original Gothic skeleton. The façade itself dates to the 19th century, with the neo-Gothic façade completed in 1905 by architect Errico Alvino.

Architecture and Interior

Three entrances lead into the cathedral. The main bronze doors proudly bear the coat of arms of the Carafa family, to which Pope Paul IV belonged. The Naples Cathedral has an imposing Neo-Gothic façade with three entrance portals, flanked by two unfinished bell towers. The central portal features intricate carvings, statues of saints, a majestic central rose window, and sculptures of the Virgin Mary with Child and figures such as Saint Gennaro and Cardinal Minutolo. Unlike cathedrals set in wide piazzas, the Naples Cathedral is shoulder to shoulder with neighbouring buildings on the narrow Via Duomo, which was widened in the 1860s.

The cathedral has a Latin cross plan with a nave and two side aisles. The central nave stretches about 100 metres long and the interior rises nearly 48 metres high. The naves are separated by eight pillars in African granite, above which are large ogival arches in Gothic style. These arches support a truss-beam roof. The impressive ceiling is a 17th-century coffered structure featuring paintings by Girolamo Imparato, while the nave walls are adorned with works by Luca Giordano depicting apostles, doctors of the Roman Catholic Church, and the patron saints of Naples. Busts of the first sixteen bishops of Naples adorn the supporting pillars. Five chapels line each side of the cathedral, adding further beauty. The interior also features monumental organs with over 5,000 pipes. The space is richly decorated with frescoes, bronze railings, grand altars, sculptures, and canvases by important Italian artists.

Key Areas and Features

Basilica of Santa Restituta

Integrated into the cathedral complex from its founding, this 4th-century basilica is the oldest Christian basilica in Naples. You can still visit it today from the cathedral’s northern nave. The basilica originally had five naves and contains early Christian mosaics and artefacts. It also houses a museum and archaeological excavations from Greek and Roman times, including an early Christian crypt. The Basilica of Santa Restituta was renovated in the 17th century.

Baptistery of San Giovanni in Fonte

Adjacent to the Basilica of Santa Restituta is the small Baptistery of San Giovanni. It is believed to be the oldest surviving Christian baptistery in the world, even older than Rome’s famous Lateran Baptistery. It is adorned with unique late 4th-century mosaics depicting biblical scenes and symbols of early Christianity. Tickets are required to access the Baptistery.

Relics of Saint Januarius and the Miracle of the Blood

Saint Januarius (San Gennaro) is the city’s beloved patron saint. His relics are treasured within the cathedral. Archbishop Oliviero Carafa brought back the relics of Saint Januarius to Naples in 1497. His skull and two vials of blood are held in a silver strongbox behind the altar, while more of his remains are housed below the altar in the Cappella Carafa chapel, also known as the Succorpo Chapel.

The cathedral is famously associated with the miraculous liquefaction of the blood of San Gennaro. A vial of blood belonging to the saint is brought out three times a year, and the dried blood usually liquefies. Legend says that when the blood doesn’t liquefy, disaster will come to Naples. This miracle is a significant cultural and religious event attracting many visitors.

Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro

This ornately decorated chapel houses the relics of Saint Januarius and is a place of deep devotion for Neapolitans. The chapel contains numerous silver busts, sculptures, and relics related to the saint, including precious sacred vestments and documents. Above the Royal Chapel of the Treasure of St Januarius is a large dome decorated with heavenly imagery. Designed by Francesco Grimaldi, the chapel was completed in 1646 with artworks by renowned painters such as Jusepe de Ribera and Giovanni Lanfranco.

Minutolo Chapel

Located in the transept on the right side, this chapel was restored by Archbishop Capece Minutolo in the late 13th century as his funeral chapel. It is said to have inspired Boccaccio’s story “Andreuccio da Perugia” from The Decameron.

Other Art and Burials

The interior houses the tomb of Archbishop Oliviero Carafa and several Angevin rulers, including Charles I of Anjou and Carlo Martello. On the high altar, you will see a large sculpture of the Assumption, inspired by Bernini’s work in St Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The cathedral also holds an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures, with Luca Giordano completing many of the Baroque sections.

Practical Information

Official Names: Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta), Cathedral of Saint Januarius (Cattedrale di San Gennaro), Duomo di Napoli.
Location: Via Duomo, 147, 80138 Napoli, Italy.

Opening Hours:

• Generally open daily from 8:00 am to 7:30 pm.
• Some sections may close in the afternoon; visiting between 8:00 am and 12:30 pm, or 4:30 pm and 7:00 pm is recommended.
• The Museum of the Treasure of San Gennaro is open daily from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm (last entry at 5:30 pm).
• Entrance Fees:
• Main Cathedral: Free (donations welcome).
• Baptistery: €2.
• Museum of the Treasure of San Gennaro: €10 (€7 for seniors 65+, free for under-12s and disabled visitors).
• Guided tours: Around €20 per person.

Getting There:

• By Metro: Line 1 to Museo Station or Line 2 to Cavour Station.
• By Train: Napoli Piazza Cavour (11-minute walk) or Napoli Centrale (20-minute walk).
• By Bus: Several routes stop near the cathedral, including E1, R2, and CS.
• By Foot: The cathedral is located in the heart of the historic centre.

Nearby Attractions: San Lorenzo Maggiore Basilica, Via San Gregorio Armeno, Cappella Sansevero, San Domenico Maggiore, and the Naples National Archaeological Museum.

Tips for Visiting

• Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
• Check mass times and opening hours before visiting.
• Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during the Miracle of San Gennaro celebrations.
• Consider a guided tour for more insight into the cathedral’s history.
• Visit during the feast of San Gennaro (19 September) to witness the blood liquefaction ceremony.
• Don’t miss the Treasure Museum and the Basilica of Santa Restituta for a complete experience.

Why Visit the Duomo di Napoli

The Naples Cathedral is a fascinating testament to the city’s faith, history, and art. It is not just a church but a collection of sacred spaces that reflect centuries of devotion and craftsmanship. With its Gothic architecture, Baroque decorations, and ancient origins, the cathedral tells the story of Naples itself.

Witnessing the Miracle of San Gennaro and exploring its treasure-filled chapels make it one of the most meaningful and memorable places to visit in Naples. It’s a vital stop for anyone discovering the cultural heart of the city.