San Martino, Former monastery and museum on Vomero hill in Naples, Italy
San Martino is a former Carthusian monastery on the Vomero hill that now functions as a museum with extensive exhibition spaces. The complex combines baroque and gothic elements with multiple cloisters, underground chambers, and terraced gardens overlooking the city.
The monastery was founded in 1325 under Charles of Anjou and consecrated in 1368 during Queen Joan I's reign. Over centuries it was expanded and modified, serving as an important center of religious life in Naples.
The museum exhibits contain an extensive collection of Neapolitan nativity scenes, royal carriages, naval artifacts, and paintings from various periods.
The site is easily reached from Piazza Vanvitelli and access is mostly level or requires only a few steps. Visitors should plan at least two hours to explore the exhibitions and areas thoroughly.
Inside the museum is one of Naples' largest collections of nativity scenes with details and figures from different periods. These creches show the local art tradition and holiday culture that has been maintained across generations.
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