The Royal Palace is an opulent former palace in the heart of Naples. The stylish building was originally constructed in 1616 for the Spanish rulers in Naples. It later housed the Bourbon Kings who ruled over the Kingdom of Naples in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, you can walk through the rooms and see gold furnishings, frescoes by Italian artists and sculptures and paintings. The palace’s marble double staircase is a great spot for a photo. Outside, wander the Royal Gardens and Royal Chapel.
The Royal Palace’s centuries-old grand interior has been well-preserved, making it a perfect place to stroll around and enjoy the grandeur. It’s a good idea to use the audio guide, which is included in the small admission fee and available in English, for a commentary as you make your way around. Ascend the double staircase, made from white marble, to the Royal Apartment. Walk from room to room and see marble patchwork floors, gold chandeliers and gold reliefs lining the ceilings. The throne room contains a royal throne from about 1850.
Visit the National Library inside the palace. The library contains portions of an early Coptic Bible as well as the philosophical writings of a resident of Herculaneum in the first century A.D. Herculaneum was destroyed by the Mount Vesuvius eruption of A.D. 79.
The palace facade includes the statues of the eight kings who ruled over Naples from the 12th century to the unification of Italy. Find these on the palace’s west side, facing Piazza del Plebiscito, the largest square in the city. The sculptures were all created by different artists and give insight into the notable variety of rulers in Naples.
The Royal Palace is located in the heart of Naples. There is a bus route from the central station at Piazza Garibaldi to the palace, which is open Thursday to Tuesday, from morning until evening.
