Chiostri di San Domenico Maggiore, Gothic cloister in Historic Center, Italy
The Chiostri di San Domenico Maggiore are three monumental cloisters in Naples' historic center featuring stone arches, columns, and decorative elements typical of Gothic architecture. Only the smallest cloister, known as 'delle statue', is open to visitors today.
Dominican friars built these Gothic cloisters during the medieval period under Charles I of Anjou. Later earthquakes and fires led to modifications that continued until the late 19th century.
The cloister holds four statues of Dominican saints at its corners, originally from the former Church of San Sebastiano, surrounding a central green space. These figures shaped how friars experienced their daily surroundings and reflected the order's devotional practices.
Access to the complex requires arrangement in advance, as only one small cloister is open to the public through the Naples Municipal Cultural Service. Visitors should check opening conditions before planning a visit.
The large cloister once contained the cell where Renaissance philosopher Giordano Bruno lived and studied. This period shaped his intellectual development before he became known for challenging conventional authority.
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