Santa Maria Maggiore della Pietrasanta, Naples, Former church on Via Tribunali, Naples, Italy.
Santa Maria Maggiore della Pietrasanta is a former church in Naples with a domed structure following a Greek cross layout and containing multiple chapels with religious artworks. An 11th-century bell tower stands beside Baroque altarpieces that shape the interior space.
The church was originally built in 533 on the site of an ancient temple and later underwent profound transformations. In the 17th century, architect Cosimo Fanzago carried out a fundamental reconstruction that shaped its present form.
The Cappella Pontano beside the entrance shows how architectural style changed here over time. You can see clearly in this space how the Renaissance reshaped the older structure.
Below ground, a crypt contains traces of an early Christian basilica that visitors can examine during opening hours. It makes sense to allow time for your visit so you can explore the different levels and chapels at a relaxed pace.
The altars display works by Giuseppe Bonito and followers of Luca Giordano, documenting Neapolitan Baroque style. These artists shaped the city's art scene through their use of color and dramatic compositions in religious works.
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