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Royal Palace of Naples: A Testament to Neapolitan History

Explore centuries of Neapolitan history and royal grandeur at the Royal Palace of Naples, a cultural landmark in the heart of the city.

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The Royal Palace of Naples, or Palazzo Reale, stands as a powerful symbol of centuries of Neapolitan history and culture. Built in the 17th century, it served as a residence for Spanish Viceroys, Bourbon monarchs, and even the Savoy royal family after the unification of Italy. Today, it's a museum showcasing opulent apartments, artwork, and the National Library.

A brief summary to Royal Palace of Naples

  • Monday 9 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-7 pm
  • Friday 9 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-7 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the ticket lines.
  • Consider a combined ticket to also visit nearby attractions like the Teatro di San Carlo.
  • Arrive early in the morning to experience a more tranquil visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Royal Palace of Naples is easily accessible by public transport. Take Metro Line 1 to the Municipio station, which is a short, 10-minute walk to Piazza del Plebiscito. Alternatively, several bus lines stop near the palace, including lines R2, R3, and 151. Get off at the Acton stop, just a 2-minute walk from the palace. A single metro or bus ticket costs around €1.50.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the city center, the Royal Palace is easily reachable on foot. From the Municipio metro station, walk straight along Via San Carlo towards Piazza del Plebiscito. The walk is approximately 10 minutes and offers views of the Teatro San Carlo. No costs are involved.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Naples. A short taxi ride from the Napoli Centrale train station to the Royal Palace takes approximately 10 minutes, depending on traffic, and typically costs between €13 and €17. Be sure the taxi driver uses the meter or negotiate the fare in advance.

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Discover more about Royal Palace of Naples

Located in the heart of Naples on Piazza del Plebiscito, the Royal Palace of Naples offers a glimpse into the regal past of this vibrant city. Construction began in 1600 under the direction of Domenico Fontana, commissioned by the Spanish Viceroy Fernando Ruiz de Castro. The palace was intended to host King Philip III of Spain, though he never actually visited. Throughout its history, the palace has been a stage for significant historical events and has undergone numerous transformations. Charles of Bourbon established it as the main royal residence in 1734, and the palace saw further expansion and embellishment under architects like Luigi Vanvitelli. The palace also served as a residence for Joseph Bonaparte and Joachim Murat during French rule. After the unification of Italy, it became a residence for the House of Savoy. Today, the Royal Palace is a museum complex that allows visitors to explore the lavishly decorated royal apartments, admire artwork by Neapolitan masters, and wander through serene gardens. The palace also houses the National Library of Naples, home to a vast collection of books and manuscripts. Highlights include the Historical Apartment, the Gallery of Time, and the Caruso Museum.

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