Basilica Reale Pontificia San Francesco da Paola: A Neoclassical Masterpiece

The Basilica Reale Pontificia San Francesco da Paola is one of Naples' most iconic religious sites, gracing the Piazza del Plebiscito with its neoclassical grandeur. Its design, heavily influenced by the Pantheon in Rome, reflects the architectural tastes of the early 19th century. The basilica's history is intertwined with the political shifts of Naples. Initially commissioned by Joachim Murat during his brief reign, the project was later taken over by King Ferdinand I of Bourbon after Napoleon's fall. Ferdinand I dedicated the church to Saint Francis of Paola as a votive offering for his restoration to the throne. Construction began in 1817 and concluded in 1846. Pietro Bianchi designed the basilica, while Leopoldo Laperuta designed the surrounding colonnade. The basilica's exterior features a portico with six Ionic columns crafted from Carrara marble. Above the architrave, statues of Saint Francis of Paola, Saint Ferdinand of Castile, and Religion stand prominently. The interior, shaped like a Greek cross, boasts a central dome supported by Corinthian columns. The main altar, made of precious marbles, is dedicated to San Francesco di Paola. The basilica also holds the distinction of being the first church in Naples to have an inverted altar, a privilege granted by Pope Gregory XVI. Inside, visitors can admire artwork by renowned Neapolitan artists.