Santa Maria del Pianto, Naples

Santa Maria del Pianto is a baroque church in Naples featuring distinctive geometric forms and decorated stone elements on its facade and interior. The octagonal layout creates a sense of harmony throughout the worship space.

Francesco Antonio Picchiatti designed this church in 1657 as a memorial to the victims of the devastating plague epidemic of 1656. It stands as an architectural witness to one of the city's darkest periods.

The church remains an active place of worship where locals gather for services and reflection throughout the year. Its role today shows how this space continues to matter in the spiritual life of those who live nearby.

The church sits along Via Vicinale di Santa Maria del Pianto and is easily accessible on foot, surrounded by cemetery grounds. Visitors should approach respectfully, as it remains an active religious site and memorial space.

The church stands near the Grotta degli Sportiglioni, a natural cave that served as a mass burial site during the plague years. This proximity links the architectural memorial directly to where much of the tragedy physically took place.