Discovering the Hidden Gem of Naples: The Capodimonte Museum
Tucked away in the heart of Naples, Italy, lies a treasure trove of art, history, and architecture that will leave you spellbound. Welcome to the Capodimonte Museum, a former royal palace turned museum that has been a hub of cultural excellence for centuries.
A Brief History of the Capodimonte Museum
The Capodimonte Museum was built in 1738 by Carlo di Borbone, King of Naples, as a residence for his family. Over the years, it has been the home of various royal families, including the Bourbons, Bonapartes, Murats, and Savoias. In 1957, the Savoians converted the palace into a museum, which now showcases an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
What to See and Visit
As you explore the Capodimonte Museum, you’ll discover a journey through time that spans six centuries of Neapolitan art. The museum is divided into several areas, each offering a unique insight into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
The Farnese Collection
This impressive collection constitutes the main nucleus of the Capodimonte Museum and occupies the eastern wing of the first floor palace built in 1738. Here, you’ll find works by renowned artists such as Tiziano, Bertoja, Correggio, and Bruegel the Elder.
The Arts of Naples
This exhibit takes you on a chronological journey through six centuries of art that tell the story of Naples and Southern Italy. You’ll admire valuable artworks by Dirk Hendricksz, Luca Giordano, Pedro de Rubiales, Andrea Sabatini da Salerno, Tiziano, Caravaggio, Simone Martini, Pinturicchio, Cesare da Sesto, Polidoro da Caravaggio, and Vasari.
D’Avalos Collection
This collection consists of embroidered fabrics, miniatures, prints, arms, and paintings by seventeenth-century masters such as Ribera, Pacecco De Rosa, Andrea Vaccaro, Luca Giordano, Giuseppe Recco, Giuseppe Ruoppolo, Abraham Brueghel.
Contemporary Art
From 1978, Capodimonte began offering spaces for temporary exhibitions of internationally renowned contemporary artists. Over time, the artists exhibited at the museum have left some of their works to the institution as a gesture of esteem and gratitude.
Mele Posters
The collection was donated to the Capodimonte Museum by the heirs of the Mele family, founders of “I Grandi Magazzini Italiani”, opened in 1889 on Via San Carlo in Naples. The exhibition showcases 32 large posters commissioned by the family to famous artists.
Armeria
This part of the museum is dedicated to arms with an extensive collection of various types and periods. Firearms, defensive weapons, white arms, swords, daggers, polearms, armor for war and tournaments are on display.
De Ciccio Collection
In this section, you can admire a collection donated by Mario De Ciccio to the Italian State in 1958, comprising various objects and artifacts collected over about 50 years by the Patinean patron. There are 1,300 pieces on display, including medieval glasswork, bronze, ivory, smalti, sacred paraments, textiles, embroidery, silverware, and a selection of archaeological items, Persian and Chinese porcelain.
Royal Apartment
The apartment floor is composed of a series of rooms with antique furniture, some restored, which were the home of various families who lived here. Among the most prized pieces are porcelains, everyday objects, sculptures, and paintings by Italian and European artists from the XVIII to XIX century.
Must-Visit Areas
- Sale Borboniche: A refined interior with wall decorations in tempera, mosaic floors, mirrors, and antique furniture. It features a rich collection of paintings.
- Sala Francesi: A room dedicated to the French dominance in Naples, featuring artworks by important artists such as Canova, Hayez, Gerard, Gigante.
- Porcelain Room (1757-1759): Comprises approximately 3,000 pieces of high-quality craftsmanship.
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The Park
The park covers an area of 124 hectares and was used by the monarchs for hunting and organizing festivals. After opening the museum in 1957, it became a public park. It was built in 1743 in the style of baroque but was later adapted to the English garden style in the XIX century.
Practical Information
- Hours: Ground floor and first floor: 8:30 am – 7:30 pm; Second and third floors: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm (closed on Wednesdays).
- Full ticket price: €12.00
- Discounts: €8.00 for ages between 18 and 24 years
- Free entry: Under 18
- Online tickets and guided visits: Powered by GetYourGuide
Tips and Tricks
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
- Consider buying a card, such as CitySightseeing or Napoli Artecard, which offers discounts on museum entry and public transportation.
- Be aware that no food can be brought inside.
- Plan for at least two hours of visit time.
Location and Arrival
The museum is within walking distance from Naples Central Railway Station (Piazza Cavour), about 1.7 kilometers walkable in less than 30 minutes. Get directions by bus: From Piazza Cavour, take the bus 168 or 178 that arrives after about 15 minutes at the Capodimonte stop.
Historical and Curiosities Facts
After years of foreign domination, with the Bourbons ascending to the throne, Naples began to enjoy a period of international success. In order to locate their impressive art collection in the palace, they commissioned its construction starting from 1739. The park was developed in 1742. Even families who owned the property contributed over the years to embellishments and renovations.
Since its foundation, the palace has been visited by famous personalities who, upon arriving in Italy, did not hesitate to visit it. Among them were De Sade, Canova, Goethe. With the arrival of the French in 1799, the palace was completely devastated and looted before being left for habitation by Giuseppina Bonaparte before and then Giocchino Murat afterwards.
Conclusion
The Capodimonte Museum is a treasure trove of art, history, and architecture that will leave you spellbound. From the impressive Farnese Collection to the contemporary art exhibitions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With its beautiful park and stunning architecture, this museum is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Naples.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the opening hours of the Capodimonte Museum?
The ground floor and first floor are open from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm, while the second and third floors are open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm (closed on Wednesdays).
- How much does it cost to visit the Capodimonte Museum?
The full ticket price is €12.00, with discounts available for ages between 18 and 24 years.
- Can I bring food into the museum?
No, food cannot be brought inside the museum.
- Are there guided tours available?
Yes, online tickets and guided visits are powered by GetYourGuide.
- Is the park open to visitors?
Yes, the park is open daily with free entry.
- Can I visit the palace and park together?
Yes, both the palace and park can be visited separately or together.
- Are there any special exhibitions or events happening at the Capodimonte Museum?
Please check the museum’s website for up-to-date information on temporary exhibitions and events.
- Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the museum is wheelchair accessible.
