Historical Tips about Sansevero Chapel in Naples
In the heart of Naples historical center, you can find a hidden gem, the Sansevero Chapel, house of the stunning sculpture of the Veiled Christ, accessible thanks to our group tour of the historical center with tickets included.
The Chapel is a masterpiece of the 18th century Neapolitan Baroque architectural style, and it was a former mausoleum and private chapel for the family of the mysterious Sansevero Prince, Raimondo Di Sangro.
He was a partron of arts, a scientist and an alchemist, and the Chapel itself reflects his many interests and knowledge.
Inside the Chapel, visitors can admire the Veiled Christ, a marble sculpture representing Jesus Christ wrapped in an extraordinary transparent veil.
Together with La Pudicizia and Il Disinganno (both sculptures represent Sansevero prince’s mother and father), the Veild Christ forms a sculptural grous of uncommon beauty.
In the basement of Sansevero Chapel, you can find the so-called “Macchine Anatomiche” (Anatomical Machines), which deserves a separate paragrhap: these are a couple of skeletons (male and female) exposed in a glass case, showing an extraordinary cristalization of the vascular and endocrine system.
These specimens (we cannot define it as sculptures at all) were created by a physician friend of the Prince of Sansevero, and they represent a legacy of his curiosity towards science and alchemic arts.
Our tour of Naples Historical Center with admission tickets to Sansevero Chapel allows you to walk the famous alley which cuts in two the city, called “Spaccanapoli”. Along the way you will admire precious religious buldings and monuments, like Santa Chiara church, San Gregorio Armeno street, Piazza San Domenico Maggiore, the Cathedral.
Not far from the Historical Centre, there are also several other attractions to visit, including the National Archaeological Museum of Naples, in where you can admire a vast exhibition of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts (found during the excavation of Pompeii and Herculaneum), and the Royal Palace of Naples, a beautiful palace that was once the residence of the kings Borbone.
Overall, the Chapel of San Severo is a unique and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in art, history, or science, you won’t want to miss this incredible site.
Why I Should visit Veiled Christ in Naples?
The Veiled Christ is the world-famous marble sculpture located in the Chapel of Sansevero in Naples.
There are several reasons why you might want to visit the Veiled Christ:
Its beauty: The Veiled Christ is a stunning and impressive sculpture depicting Jesus Christ wrapped in a transparent veil.
The artist’s attention to details and his craftsmanship are truly impressive.
Its historical meaning: The Veiled Christ was made by Giuseppe Sammartino in the 18th century and it is considered one of the finest examples of Neapolitan Baroque art.
Its location: The Veiled Christ is located in the Sansevero Chapel, which is a beautiful and historical religious site in the heart of the Historical Centre.
The Chapel is known for its Baroque architecture and its other artworks, including the above mentioned “Macchine Anatomiche” (Anatomical Machines).
Its proximity to other attractions: The Chapel of Sansevero is not far from the National Archaeological Museum of Naples and the Royal Palace of Naples.
Once you stay in Naples, visiting the Veiled Christ is a great way to start your trip in the city!
