San Lorenzo Maggiore

The church of San Lorenzo Maggiore, near via San Gregorio Armeno, is one of the most fascinating churches in Naples and its history is complex. This area was originally the centre of ancient greek life in Naples, then a forum in Roman times before being abandoned due to a landslide. In 1270 this area was donated to the Franciscan order by King Charles I, for them to build a new church. The plan was grand, as the Angevin court wanted to express their power through the construction of a new building. Thanks to documents, we now know that San Lorenzo Maggiore wasn't just another church, but a very important cultural and political centre in Neapolitan life. Here, King Alphonse of Aragon held the investiture ceremony for his son Ferdinand. The Angevin family have their monumental tombs here, like the Tomb of Catherine of Austria, first wife of Charles, made by Tino da Camaino (1323-1325). Many other important artists left masterpieces here, like the wonderful altarpiece by Simone Martino and the Polyptych by Colantonio, one of the most important figures of the fifteenth century in Napoli (both works are now at the Museo Capodimonte). The Gothic style was replaced by the Baroque style and then earthquakes helped to alter the appearance of the church. Still visible is the original ancient greek pavement and also from the from the Baroque period, we still have the magnificent Cacace family Chapel and the chapel dedicated to Saint Anthony from Padua, both in polychrome marble designed by Cosimo Fanzago, who realised one of his most significant works, creating a fascinating harmony of sculpture, architecture, painting and marble. Still today, it is possible to see all the different stratifications and modifications of styles and centuries.

There is also a lot more to this church for underneath is a roman time capsule. Underneath the church is the remnants of Roman Napoli. You can visit these underground excavations by descending a staircase and you will see a roman road with shops.

There are also historical halls of the convent, a courtyard and a museum which houses a collection of the history of the church.

The church is free, but you have to pay to visit the other parts and the museum.

There are also guided tours in english