Cimitero Delle Fontanelle, Naples Travel Guide

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Explore Naples' haunting Cimitero delle Fontanelle, a unique ossuary filled with history, culture, and the city's deep connection to the afterlife.

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Cimitero Delle Fontanelle

The Cimitero delle Fontanelle, or Cemetery of the Little Fountains, is a unique ossuary nestled in a cave in Naples. Housing the remains of thousands, primarily the city's poor and victims of plagues and epidemics, it offers a haunting glimpse into Neapolitan history and traditions. The cemetery is known for the 'Cult of the Dead,' where locals once adopted and cared for skulls in exchange for spiritual favors.

A brief summary to Cimitero Delle Fontanelle

Via Fontanelle, 80, Naples, Metropolitan City of Naples, 80136, IT
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cimitero Delle Fontanelle.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the cemetery involves walking on uneven surfaces within the cave.
Consider visiting with a local guide to fully appreciate the history and stories behind the cemetery.
Engage respectfully with the site, recognizing its cultural and spiritual significance.
Check the official website for current opening hours and any special events.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Piazza Garibaldi, take Metro Line 1 to the Materdei stop. From there, it's a 10-minute walk to the Cimitero delle Fontanelle. Exit the station and take the first left onto Via Bartolomeo Facio Detto Carafa. At the end of the road, you'll encounter three flights of stairs; after the third flight, turn left and walk 200 meters to reach the cemetery. A single metro ticket costs €1.30.
Walking

From Piazza Cavour, walk with your back to Porta San Gennaro and continue straight for 1.8 km. This is a straightforward and enjoyable walk through the Vergini and Sanità districts, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of these historic neighborhoods. Along the way, you can admire noble palaces and unique churches. No costs involved.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Naples. A taxi from the city center to Cimitero delle Fontanelle will cost approximately €15-€20, depending on traffic and the exact starting point. Ensure the driver resets the meter at the beginning of the ride. There is a flat fee of €0.50 per large item of luggage.

Discover more about Cimitero Delle Fontanelle

The Cimitero delle Fontanelle is not just a cemetery; it's a sprawling charnel house located within a cave in the Materdei section of Naples. This unique site holds the remains of thousands of people, mostly the indigent and those who perished during the city's numerous epidemics. Its origins trace back to the 16th century when concerns arose about locating cemeteries within the city walls. As churches ran out of space, remains were moved to this cave, which eventually became the final resting place for the city's poor.The cemetery became particularly significant during the plague of 1656 and the cholera epidemic of 1837, which resulted in mass burials. In 1872, Father Gaetano Barbati disinterred and cataloged the skeletal remains, leading to the development of a spontaneous cult of devotion. This "Cult of the Dead" or "anime pezzentelle" involved locals adopting skulls, cleaning them, and offering prayers in exchange for protection or favors.Visitors can explore the dimly lit caves, where thousands of skulls and bones are arranged with care. The atmosphere is both peaceful and contemplative, offering a space for reflection on Naples' history, culture, and relationship with death. The cemetery was closed in 1969 due to concerns about excessive devotional practices but has since reopened as a historical and cultural site. Today, it stands as a poignant reminder of Naples' past and the unique traditions that have shaped the city.