Pio Monte della Misericordia
Via Tribunali
KnownSacred art
The story
Above the altar of an octagonal church still hangs, exactly where Caravaggio painted it, his Sette opere di Misericordia: a single canvas holding all the charity in the world.
Access
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The story
The Pio Monte della Misericordia, along the main decumanus, was born at the start of the seventeenth century as a lay charitable institution — founded by seven young nobles to aid the needy — and is still active today. Its church holds one of the absolute masterpieces of art: the Seven Works of Mercy by Caravaggio.
What to see
On the altar of the octagonal church, the great altarpiece of the Seven Works of Mercy (1607), painted by Caravaggio during his Neapolitan stay: seven acts of charity gathered in a single nocturnal scene, a summit of the seventeenth century. On the upper floor, the Quadreria (picture gallery) of the Pio Monte, among the most important private collections open to the public.
Tips
You are right in the old centre, a stone's throw from the main decumanus. Do not stop at the church alone: go up to the Quadreria. For hours and ticket, including access to the first floor, consult the official site. To be combined with the Duomo and the churches of the old centre.
Frequently asked questions
What can you see at the Pio Monte della Misericordia?
The Seven Works of Mercy by Caravaggio, on the altar of the church, and the Quadreria on the upper floor, one of the most important private collections in Italy.
What is the Pio Monte della Misericordia?
A Neapolitan lay charitable institution founded at the start of the seventeenth century and still active, whose church holds Caravaggio's masterpiece.
Where is the Pio Monte della Misericordia?
In Piazza Riario Sforza, along the main decumanus, in the old centre of Naples.
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