Santa Maria Donna Regina Vecchia, Gothic church in Naples, Italy
Santa Maria Donna Regina Vecchia is a former church in Naples showcasing Gothic architecture with pointed arches and a faceted apse structure. The interior is covered by a wooden roof framework that reflects French architectural influences of the period.
The church was founded in the 8th century and rebuilt following the 1293 earthquake. Subsequently, royal funding enabled a transformation toward Gothic style that reshaped the building's appearance and structure.
The interior walls display 14th-century frescoes by Pietro Cavallini showing the life of Christ and stories of saints arranged across two levels. These artworks give visitors a glimpse into medieval religious imagery and spiritual teaching.
The site lies within Naples' old quarter near other medieval buildings and is reachable on foot through the neighborhood's narrow streets. Visitors should note that the interior is quite dim and sturdy footwear is recommended for walking on the historic flooring.
The burial monument of a European queen resides here, created by artist Tino da Camaino and depicting angels drawing back curtains to reveal the figure. This tomb represents a remarkable example of how medieval sculptors honored royal women with imaginative and symbolic compositions.
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