The Castel Sant’Elmo (Saint Elmo Castle) is a military fortress perched atop Vomero Hill in Naples, which has transitioned from its defensive role to become a premier panoramic spot and the city’s foremost observation point.
Visiting Castel Sant’Elmo: An Unmissable Experience in Naples
Castel Sant’Elmo dominates the city of Naples from the highest point of Vomero Hill; you can enjoy a splendid panorama of the historic center from its many terraces and buildings.
This medieval castle was built in the 14th century on the site of a 10th-century chapel dedicated to Saint Erasmus. Over time, the name evolved from Eramo to Ermo and finally to Elmo, which gave the fortress its present name. Originally, it was a Norman watchtower (known as Belforte), and in 1325, Robert of Anjou commissioned Tino da Camaino to construct the Palatium castrum. The construction was completed in 1343, during the reign of Queen Joanna I of Naples.
Since its construction, Castel Sant’Elmo has been besieged numerous times due to its strategic position overseeing the routes to Naples, and it became a notable military target during the conflict between the Spanish and French over the conquest of the Kingdom of Naples. From 1537 to 1547, Castel Sant’Ermo, later renamed Sant’Elmo, was rebuilt by order of the Spanish Viceroy Don Pedro de Toledo and took on its current six-pointed star layout. In 1587, the castle was struck by lightning, damaging parts of the structure, military housing, and the internal church. Reconstructions were undertaken between 1599 and 1610 by architect Domenico Fontana.
The castle was used as a prison during the 17th and 18th centuries. In 1799, it was at the heart of revolutionary uprisings when republicans seized it and declared the Neapolitan Republic in its Parade Ground. Following the fall of the republic, Castel Sant’Elmo continued as a prison until its decommission in 1952.
It wasn’t until the 1980s that Castel Sant’Elmo became a “Building of Cultural Interest.” It was opened to the public in 1988.
Naples’ Castel Sant’Elmo: What Not to Miss
During your visit to Castel Sant’Elmo, do not miss the stunning Piazza d’Armi (Armoury Plaza), where you can enjoy an incredible view of the Gulf of Naples, the historic city center, and the waterfront. Don’t overlook the Hermit’s Cave, the buildings used as a prison, the Castellan’s Tower, and the small church of Sant’Erasmo. Built by Pietro Prati in 1547 and completely reconstructed by architect Domenico Fontana, this church is perched atop the grand square.
Castel Sant’Elmo currently hosts temporary art and photography exhibitions, festivals, and theatrical and musical performances.
In addition, the castle is the permanent home of the Museo Napoli Novecento 1910/1980, which collects works created by Neapolitan artists during the 20th century, including sculptures, paintings, and graphic experiments. Among the authors are Enrico Baj and Mimmo Paladino.
The Views from Castel Sant’Elmo in Naples
As you stroll along the ancient walkways, following the same path once taken by on-duty soldiers, you can admire all of Naples from above.
Looking northwest, you can marvel at Rione Alto, linked to the Capodimonte Hill by the Colli Aminei. To the northeast, the landscape is dominated by Capodimonte, featuring its lush forest and beautiful palace. As you gaze southwest, Posillipo, Nisida, Campi Flegrei, and the islands of Ischia and Procida come into view. Turning your attention southeast, you’ll spot iconic sights such as Castel dell’Ovo and Maschio Angioino; look closely, and you can see the Royal Palace and Piazza del Plebiscito.
Castel Sant’Elmo: Useful Information for Your Visit
This is all the information you need to visit Castel Sant’Elmo:
Opening hours
Castel Sant’Elmo is open daily, except Tuesdays, from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm. The ticket office closes one hour before.
On the other hand, the Museo del Novecento is open every day except Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with the last entrance at 4:15 p.m.
The Piazza, bleachers, and pedestrian walkways are open on Tuesdays.
Ticket prices
The full tickets cost 5,00 €, reduced tickets are 2,50 €. Tuesday visits are 2,50 €.
Prices and opening hours may vary according to the exhibitions at the time.
Address
Via Tito Angelini, 22 80129 Naples, Italy
How to Get to Castel Sant’Elmo
By car: From the ring road, exit Vomero.
By train: From FS station in Piazza Garibaldi, Metro Line 1 towards Piscinola, Vanvitelli stop.
By metro: Line 1 stop Vanvitelli.
By bus: From Piazza Vanvitelli V1 to Largo San Martino.
Central funicular: From Piazzetta Augusteo to Piazza Fuga.
Montesanto Funicular: Up to via Morghen.
Chiaia Funicular: From Piazza Amedeo to Cimarosa.