Santa Maria delle Grazie Maggiore a Caponapoli, Former Renaissance church in Naples, Italy
Santa Maria delle Grazie Maggiore is a former church in Naples built in a Latin cross pattern with multiple chapels throughout. The building contains ornate burial monuments and Renaissance decorations distributed across its interior spaces.
Construction began in 1447 on the site of an earlier convent and underwent major redesign between 1516 and 1535. These transformations show how architectural style and artistic taste changed during the Renaissance period.
The interior displays works by Renaissance artists that celebrate religious themes and local devotion. Visitors can still observe these paintings and sculptures today, which reveal how people expressed their faith through art.
The building sits in Naples historic center near other Renaissance structures. When planning a visit, note that it is located in a busy old town district with narrow streets.
In the 18th century, the building served as a hidden meeting place for groups interested in Freemasonry under the guidance of a monk. This secret activity remained unknown to most people outside the walls.
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