Santa Maria della Vita, Former church in Naples, Italy
Santa Maria della Vita is a former church in Naples built with a Greek-cross layout and polychrome marble details throughout. The interior features staircases leading to an elevated central altar, with a decorated crypt beneath.
Construction began in 1602 following the establishment of a Dominican monastery in 1577 and was completed around 1613 under architect Giuseppe Nuvolo. The building underwent changes in the 19th century and was later closed.
The crypt holds ten shallow altars decorated with frescoes by Bernardino Fera that reflect the religious art of that period. These works show the artistic vision that shaped devotional life within this sacred space.
The building is currently not open for regular visits due to its closed status, so checking ahead about access is necessary. Local guides or tourism information can advise on whether viewing is possible on certain occasions.
A 6th-century image of Madonna and Child discovered on the site inspired the founding of this sanctuary. This discovery drove local devotion and eventually the construction of the baroque structure that stands today.
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