Historical Churches (Self Guided), Naples

Christianity in general and the Catholic faith in particular have always played an important role in the social and cultural life of Naples. Not everyone knows that the city boasts the highest number of churches in the world – almost 500 historic “houses of God” (1,000 in total) – accumulated over the course of 17(!) centuries. Hence the nickname – “the city of 500 domes”.

And their concentration is just as great – you can often find several of them in one street. The artistic and spiritual value of these temples is enormous. Early Christian or Gothic, Baroque or Neoclassical, the churches of Naples can mix architectural styles “diversi” and contain precious works of art fit to bring down visitors in a magical and almost pagan awe, whilst giving them a profoundly mystical, Christian experience.

Aside from their beauty, many of these churches are notable for the incredible stories they tell about the city and its roots. Here are some of the most peculiar churches in Naples worth visiting:

Duomo di Napoli – widely known as the San Gennaro (St. Januarius) Cathedral, home to the annual Miracle of Saint Januarius on September 19.

Pio Monte della Misericordia – the historic church founded in 1601; famous for its artworks, including Caravaggio's The Seven Works of Mercy.

Gesù Nuovo Church – built as a palace in 1470, converted into a church by the Jesuits in 1584; boasts the highest concentrations of paintings and Baroque sculptures by the most influential artists of the Neapolitan school.

San Francesco di Paola Church – an 1817 Neoclassic imitation of Rome's Pantheon.

Whether you are a fervent believer or enthusiastic appreciator of art seeking to explore some of the most important churches of Naples for their religious, historical or architectural heritage, take this self-guided walking tour.