The Museo nazionale di San Martino is located within the former Carthusian monastery of Certosa di San Martino, situated on the Vomero hill overlooking the city of Naples. The complex was founded in 1325 by Charles, Duke of Calabria, and underwent significant architectural expansions during the 16th and 17th centuries, evolving into a masterpiece of Neapolitan Baroque art and architecture.
Today, the museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts documenting the history of Naples from the Bourbon period to the unification of Italy. The galleries feature a diverse array of items, including royal carriages, naval memorabilia, intricate nativity scenes (presepi), and paintings by prominent artists such as Massimo Stanzione and Jusepe de Ribera, all set within the historic monastic cloisters and chapels.
Key Facts
- Materials
- Marble, Stucco, Tufa, Wood
- Civilization
- Italian
- Accessibility
- Partially accessible; some areas involve stairs due to historic architecture
- Date(s)
- 1325 CE
- Condition
- Well-preserved, active museum
- Original Function
- Carthusian Monastery
- Key Figures
- Charles, Duke of Calabria, Cosimo Fanzago, Giovanni Antonio Dosio
Foundation and Early Years
14th CenturyThe Certosa was established in 1325 by Charles, Duke of Calabria, on the site of a former fortress. It was designed to serve the Carthusian order, providing a secluded space for prayer and contemplation high above the city.
Baroque Expansion
16th-17th CenturyDuring the 16th and 17th centuries, the monastery underwent massive renovations. Architects like Cosimo Fanzago transformed the interior into a showcase of Neapolitan Baroque, featuring elaborate marble inlays and frescoes.
Secularization and Museum Establishment
1866Following the unification of Italy and the suppression of religious orders, the monastery was secularized. In 1866, it was officially converted into a national museum to preserve the artistic and historical heritage of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies.