Chiesa di Santa Maria della Libera

The Chiesa di Santa Maria della Libera is a baroque church with a convent building in Naples, distinguished by Ionic pilasters, a decorated entrance portal, and a medallion supported by angels on its outer wall. The complex sits between surrounding buildings and streets, showing how tightly packed the historic center of the city is.

Construction started in the 1500s and the building underwent major transformations in the second half of the 1700s under architect Arcangelo Guglielmelli. These renovations created the baroque appearance we see today and show how the city changed its architectural style over time.

The church displays religious artworks created over several centuries, with sculptures and paintings showing biblical scenes and saints throughout its interior spaces. These pieces reflect the artistic traditions that shaped Naples during different periods.

The building is located within walking distance between Piazza Mazzini and Montesanto in Naples' UNESCO World Heritage historic center, accessible from several directions. Being in this area makes it easy to combine a visit with nearby historic sites.

The former convent keeps its original piperno stone portal, which is now sealed up, and ground floor arches that form a distinctive covered walkway. These features show what the building looked like before later changes were made to it.