Santa Maria della Sapienza, Naples, Former church and Italian national heritage in central Naples, Italy
Santa Maria della Sapienza is a former church in Naples featuring intricate polychrome marble decorations and a Greek-cross layout. Spiral staircases guide visitors toward the main altar, showcasing the building's careful architectural design.
A cardinal commissioned the church in 1507 at the site of the University della Sapienza. The building was initially linked to one religious community and later transitioned to a Dominican monastery.
The church houses relics of saints, including those of Maria Carafa, whose brother later became Pope Paul IV. This connection to a papal family holds special meaning for visitors interested in religious history.
The building is located on Via Costantinopoli and remained closed for many years before undergoing restoration in 2011. Visitors should check ahead to confirm current accessibility.
The floor features black and white patterns matching those found in the nearby church of San Gregorio Armeno, created by a notable architect of the period. This connection between the two Naples churches reveals shared artistic influences of the time.
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