Castel Nuovo

Also known as Maschiodist Angioino, Castel Nuovo has the majestic appearance of a castle with its tall standing towers, turrets, and stones. Called Nuovo (new) to distinguish it from the older Castel dell'Ovo, it was built as a royal residence from 1279 to 1282 by Charles I of Anjou. It was also a prominent center of arts and literature, garnering illustrious works from Petrarch, Boccaccio, and Giotto. What we see today is mostly the construction in the 15th century by Aragon king Alfonso V and later renovations. The castle was downgraded to a military fortress when Naples was annexed by Spain at the end of the 15th century. However in 1734, King of Naples moved back, thus restoring the site to a royal castle.
Today, Castel Nuovo houses 14th and 15th-century sculptures, frescoes, silver, bronzes, and paintings by Neapolitan artists from the 17th and 20th centuries. In the enclosure, tourists can also examine ancient finds such as the cemetery areas and foundations of a convent, pre-dating the castle itself. After you have had the chance to see all this, do not forget to take in the breathtaking view from the fortress tower, easily accessed via lifts. Castel Nuovo is located near the port area of Naples. To reach the magnificent castle, take bus number R2 and get off at the stop for Piazza del Municipio.