Naples Cathedral, Gothic cathedral in Naples, Italy
Naples Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral on the east side of Via Duomo, its neo-Gothic west front built of light cream stone by Errico Alvino and inaugurated in 1905. The facade rises to a central gable with a cross, flanked by two slender octagonal turrets and two lower gabled sections; the 15th-century portal, with sculptures by Tino da Camaino, survives within it. The two bell towers planned for the sides were never finished beyond their bases.
Construction began in the late 13th century under King Charles II of Anjou, who demolished two older basilicas to make room for the new cathedral. Earthquakes and later renovations altered parts of the facade and interior over the centuries.
The name San Gennaro comes from the patron saint of the city, whose relics are venerated here and whose feast attracts thousands of believers three times a year. The chapel of the treasure functions as a spiritual center, where candles burn and votive offerings on the walls show the gratitude of local people.
The entrance is located at the main facade with steps leading up from the square, and the interior is open during mornings and late afternoons. Visitors should cover shoulders and knees, and side chapels may be closed during services.
Excavations during the 1969–1972 restorations brought to light Greek, Roman and early medieval remains, now displayed in the cathedral. In the crypt of Santa Restituta a Greek wall of the temple of Apollo is built in opus reticulatum; under the apse lies the peristyle of a late imperial domus, with a stretch of Roman aqueduct and a Greek road on an inclined plane.
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