During this guided tour, students will have the opportunity to discover one of the most fascinating places in Naples: the Certosa di San Martino, located on a hill overlooking the city. This tour offers a complete overview of two emblematic monuments of the hilly Naples: the historic Certosa and the majestic Castel Sant'Elmo.
We start our journey at the Certosa di San Martino, an ancient monastery founded in the Middle Ages and transformed into a museum that tells the history and culture of Naples through its extraordinary collections. The guide will accompany us through the elegant cloisters and halls of the monastery, explaining the history of the Certosa and its significance in Neapolitan urbanism. The tour continues with a visit to the San Martino Museum, located inside the Certosa. This section of the route is particularly exciting, as the museum houses a number of fascinating and unique collections. Students will admire the famous collection of cribs, which includes the sumptuous shepherds of the '700 and the wonderful Cuciniello Nativity Scene, known for its elaborate and detailed scenography. The guide will provide in-depth explanations about the tradition of the crib in Naples and the cultural importance of these works of art. In addition, we will explore the royal carriage gallery, where historic vehicles used by the Bourbon royal family are exhibited. The guide will show you the evolution of the design of the carriages and their role in court life, offering a glimpse into the noble life of the time. Another highlight of the visit is the new naval section of the museum, which presents a reconstruction of the Bourbon ships. This section offers a detailed look at the navigation and the naval fleets of the period, enriching students' understanding of how the maritime history of Naples is intertwined with its artistic and cultural history. After the visit to the Certosa, we will move to the nearby Castel Sant'Elmo, the last castle built in Naples. Located on a rock, the castle offers a breathtaking 360 degree panoramic view of the city, thanks to its six-pointed star-shaped installation. The guide will describe the history and strategic importance of the castle, allowing students to appreciate the historical and architectural context of this imposing monument.
Duration: 2.30 hours approximately
