Naples Cathedral (Duomo di San Gennaro)

The Duomo is the main church of Naples. A wonderful Gothic cathedral built in the 13th century, it stands on the site of an earlier church dating from around 570 AD. It is dedicated to Naples' patron saint, San Gennaro, whose blood is brought out in a vial three times a year - on the first Saturday in May, September 19 and December 16. If it liquefies, all is well. If it doesn't...fears are held for the safety of Naples. Luckily, it nearly always liquefies.

The cathedral contains some excellent artworks including frescoes in the Chapel of the Treasure of San Gennaro and some 4th-century mosaics. To one side of the Duomo is the 4th century Basilica Santa Restituta, the oldest chapel in Naples, containing columns believed to be from the Temple of Apollo. Under here is an interesting archaeological site tracing the Greek, Roman and early Christian city.

Practical Info

The nearest metro station is Piazza Cavour. Note that the archaeological area is open on weekdays with the same hours as the cathedral, but it is closed weekends and religious holidays.