Welcome to the Certosa di San Martino, one of the most fascinating and significant places in Naples. Located on the Vomero hill, this imposing charterhouse is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture and offers an extraordinary panoramic view of the city and the Gulf of Naples. Today, we will explore the history, architecture, and artistic wonders of this extraordinary monastic complex together.

The Certosa di San Martino was founded in 1325 as a monastery for the Carthusian monks, a religious order known for its life of isolation and meditation. The complex we see today is the result of significant expansion and renovation work carried out in the 17th century, which transformed the Certosa into a masterpiece of Neapolitan Baroque architecture.

Upon arrival, you will immediately notice the monastery's facade, an imposing work rich in Baroque architectural details. The main entrance features a grand portal decorated with sculpted elements and an impressive pediment. As you enter, you will find yourself in the main cloister, a magnificent space reflecting the grandeur of Baroque architecture.

The cloister is surrounded by elegant loggias with Corinthian columns and features a series of arches and finely decorated lintels. The walls of the cloister are adorned with frescoes depicting the lives of saints and the history of the Certosa.

Inside the Certosa, you will find an extraordinary church richly decorated with stuccoes and frescoes. The high altar is particularly noteworthy, with sumptuous marble and gold decoration. The church also houses numerous side chapels, each decorated with artworks of significant value. Among these, the Chapel of Saint Anthony the Abbot is famous for its frescoes and the precious marble altar.

The church is also renowned for its ceiling decorated with frescoes representing scenes from the life of Saint Martin, the patron saint of the monastery. The scenes are painted with a vibrant range of colors and details that capture attention and tell religious and symbolic stories.

The Certosa di San Martino also hosts a museum that houses a vast collection of artworks and historical artifacts. Among the most important collections are the Neapolitan Nativity scenes, a highly appreciated artistic tradition throughout Campania. These nativity scenes, created with a variety of materials and techniques, depict scenes of daily and religious life from the Baroque period.

Additionally, the museum holds a rich selection of paintings, sculptures, and sacred art objects, offering an in-depth look at the history and culture of Naples during the period of the Certosa.

The gardens of the Certosa di San Martino are another notable aspect of the complex. Arranged on multiple levels, these gardens offer a tranquil and well-maintained green space, perfect for a relaxing stroll. From the terraces of the gardens, you will enjoy breathtaking views of Naples and the Gulf of Naples. It is the ideal place to take photographs and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Thank you for visiting the Certosa di San Martino with us. We hope you have enjoyed this exploration of the history, art, and architecture of this extraordinary monastic complex. With its rich Baroque decoration, artistic collections, and panoramic views, the Certosa di San Martino remains a unique corner of Naples that continues to captivate visitors with its timeless beauty and charm.