San Gennaro dei Poveri, old hospital in Naples
San Gennaro dei Poveri is a palace and former hospital in Naples arranged around a large courtyard with a distinctive double-flight staircase. The building features a distinctive bell tower and preserves frescoes and city emblems that reflect its long history.
The building was converted to a hospital in 1468 by Cardinal Oliviero Carafa after the earlier Benedictine monastery had been abandoned. During the major plague outbreak of 1656, it was expanded, and later King Joachim Murat provided crucial support to ensure its continuation.
The name San Gennaro dei Poveri reflects the city's patron saint and the original mission to serve the poor. Local residents continue to gather in the area today, keeping alive the traditions and memory of the Sanità district.
The building sits in the heart of the Sanità district and is easily reached when exploring the narrow streets of the neighborhood. Guided tours are regularly offered, allowing visitors to learn about the history and architecture of this site in detail.
Statues of two saints, Peter and Gennaro, were created by the renowned artist Cosimo Fanzago and are visible on the facade. These overlooked sculptures offer a direct glimpse into Naples' baroque artistic tradition and the master craftsman's work.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
