Maschio Angioino (Castel Nuovo)
Napoli (NA)
FamousCastles
The story
Its cylindrical towers watch over the port, while the triumphal arch of white marble is set into the dark stone like a doorway to the Renaissance.
The story
Castel Nuovo, to everyone the Maschio Angioino, is one of the symbols of Naples. It was built at the end of the thirteenth century as the new royal residence of Charles I of Anjou; under the Aragonese it became a magnificent fortress, to which we owe the white marble triumphal arch set between two towers, a Renaissance masterpiece that celebrates the entry of Alfonso of Aragon into Naples.
What to see
The triumphal arch on the façade is the piece not to be missed. Inside, the Palatine Chapel, the Hall of the Barons (Sala dei Baroni) with its vault, and the Civic Museum with routes on the upper floors. The castle dominates Piazza Municipio, between the harbour and the centre.
Hours and prices
Intero 6 € (ridotto/gruppi 4 €; gratis under 18 e over 65 UE). Dato 2026-07.
Museo civico aperto lun-sab 8:30–18:30 (biglietteria fino a un'ora prima); chiuso i festivi salvo aperture straordinarie. Biglietti su biglietti.comune.napoli.it.
Tips
It is a stone's throw from the harbour and Piazza Municipio, handy to fit into any tour of the centre. Rest your eyes on the triumphal arch before going in. For the Civic Museum and the Hall of the Barons check openings and ticket on the official site.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Castel Nuovo called the Maschio Angioino?
Because it was built as a royal residence by Charles I of Anjou at the end of the thirteenth century; 'maschio' indicates the fortified keep of the castle.
What is the triumphal arch of the Maschio Angioino?
A white marble arch set between two towers on the façade, a Renaissance masterpiece that celebrates the entry of Alfonso of Aragon into Naples.
What can you visit in the Maschio Angioino?
The Palatine Chapel, the Hall of the Barons and the Civic Museum on the floors of the castle.
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