La Santarella, Neo-Renaissance villa in Vomero hill, Naples, Italy.
La Santarella is a villa on the Vomero hilltop with a square structure, four protruding towers, and crenellations, displaying features of Neapolitan Art Nouveau architecture. The building combines historical style elements with a distinctive silhouette visible across the city's hilly landscape.
Engineer Gioacchino Luigi Mellucci designed this villa at the end of the 19th century for celebrated playwright Eduardo Scarpetta, financed by earnings from theatrical performances. Its construction marked a period when the artist's success allowed him to build a grand residence in a prominent location.
The building takes its name from Scarpetta's successful comedy 'Na santarella', with a stucco relief at the entrance showing a scene from the play. The name reflects the strong bond between the artist's home and his creative work.
The residence sits atop the Vomero hilltop and offers visitors access to multiple transportation options as well as cultural attractions in nearby Naples. The neighborhood is hilly, so be prepared for slopes and an uneven terrain layout.
Scarpetta inscribed the French phrase 'Ici, je ris' on the facade, meaning he found personal joy in this villa despite his successful public performances. This hidden message reveals an intimate side of the artist distinct from his public career.
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