Which monuments to visit in Naples?

10 Most Important Monuments in Naples

Naples is not just about pizza and Vesuvius. Its millennia-old history and incredible concentration of palaces, museums, churches, and attractions will leave you speechless. At the same time, deciding where to go and what to see can be overwhelming without a guide. That’s why we’ve compiled this list of the most important monuments in Naples — the ones we believe you absolutely must visit.

1. Maschio Angioino

Built between 1279 and 1282, Maschio Angioino is an impressive medieval fortress located near the port. Founded in the 13th century under the reign of King Charles I of Anjou, it hosted figures like Giotto, Boccaccio, and Petrarch during their visits to the city.

2. Church of San Gregorio Armeno

Known to locals as the Church of Santa Patrizia, it’s a monumental church located between the main decumanus, known as Spaccanapoli, and the lower decumanus, Via Tribunali. More precisely, it sits on the famous Via San Gregorio Armeno, known throughout Italy and the world for its nativity scene craftsmanship. Despite its baroque appearance, the church likely dates back to before the year 1000, and together with the adjoining monastery, forms a religious complex of great importance to Naples.

3. Galleria Umberto I

Designed by architect Emmanuele Rocco and built between 1887 and 1890, Galleria Umberto I is one of the most important architectural landmarks in Naples. It quickly became a commercial hub and social center of the city. By 1896, it was chosen as the site of the city’s first movie theater.

4. Neptune Fountain

Built around 1595 by Naccherino, Landi, Fontana, and Bernini, the Neptune Fountain is located in Piazza Municipio, in front of Palazzo San Giacomo. But it hasn’t always been there — in fact, it's better known as the Medina Fountain. Like many other monuments in Naples, this fountain has been moved seven times. And guess what? The place where it stayed the longest was Via Medina.

5. Castel dell’Ovo

Castel dell’Ovo is the oldest castle in Naples. Built on the small island of Megaride, it’s the most iconic building in the Gulf’s skyline. Inside, it houses the Museum of Ethno-Prehistory, which contains geological and prehistoric artifacts from all over Campania.

6. Fountain of the Giant

Just a few steps from Castel dell’Ovo, between Via Partenope and Via Nazario Sauro, you’ll find the Fountain of the Giant. Created by Bernini and Naccherino, it's also known as the Immacolatella Fountain. What makes this monument truly spectacular are its three full arches, four pillars, and the central arch adorned with large coats of arms honoring the city.

7. The Duomo

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, more simply known as the Duomo, is Naples’ most important religious building. In addition to being a cultural and historical landmark, it’s famous for housing the ampoules containing the blood of Saint Januarius, which miraculously liquefies three times a year, drawing hundreds of faithful.

8. Royal Palace of Naples

Since 1600, the Royal Palace has dominated Piazza del Plebiscito, in the heart of Naples. In this iconic building, you can visit the former royal apartments and admire their original decorations. Today, much of the palace houses the National Library collections, while the oldest wing's decorated rooms have been turned into a museum showcasing 17th to 19th-century history.

9. Teatro San Carlo

In neoclassical style, Teatro San Carlo is Naples’ most renowned theater and one of the most prestigious in the world. Its red and gold decor dominates the interior, and the ceiling features an impressive painting dedicated to Apollo and Minerva.

10. Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore

The Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore, one of the city’s oldest, is located in Piazza San Gaetano. The entire religious complex includes the rich collection of the Museum of the San Lorenzo Maggiore Works and provides access to the namesake archaeological excavations.

Now that you know everything about Naples' monuments, it’s time to book your room at the B&B HOTEL Napoli and hop on the next train! Just a few steps from the central station, it’s the perfect place to comfortably explore the city center and beyond.