Chiostri di Santa Chiara, Gothic cloister complex in Naples, Italy.
The Chiostri di Santa Chiara is a Gothic cloister complex with arcaded walkways, where columns and walls are covered in hand-painted majolica tiles. Citrus trees and other plants grow between the arches, and preserved wall sections show remains of ancient Roman baths from the 1st century.
The complex was founded in 1310 when King Robert of Anjou and Queen Sancha of Mallorca built two convents for the Poor Clares nuns and Franciscan friars. These two religious communities lived and worshipped here for centuries before the site became a museum.
The decorated columns and benches tell stories about saints and local traditions through hand-painted tilework. These scenes reflect how people in Naples lived and worshipped within these spaces.
The best time to visit is in the morning when crowds are lighter and light fills the arcaded spaces. The walkways are flat and easy to navigate, though some areas can feel narrow.
Beneath the decorative tiles on columns and benches lie hidden inscriptions and symbols that raise questions about their meanings. These details were hand-painted centuries ago, yet most visitors overlook them while walking through.
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