San Gregorio Armeno
Napoli
FamousSacred art
The story
The street of the presepe (nativity scene) masters, where terracotta shepherds are shaped all year round and the alley smells of glue and wood beneath Baroque bell towers.
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The story
San Gregorio Armeno is both a monumental Baroque church — with its adjoining, ancient monastic complex — and the street that bears its name, in the heart of Naples' old centre, between the two decumani. The street is famous throughout the world for another reason: the workshops of the master crib-makers.
What to see
The church, one of the oldest and richest religious buildings in the city, holds a lavish Baroque interior and the cult of Saint Patricia. Outside, the street of San Gregorio Armeno is the 'street of the nativity scenes': craft workshops open all year round, where shepherds, figurines and, by tradition, caricatures of the figures of the moment are made.
Tips
The street of the cribs is fascinating but extremely crowded around Christmas: if you can, visit it at a quieter time to enjoy the workshops. Do not forget to step into the church, often overlooked by the crowd. You are in the heart of the decumani, among the sights of the old centre.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the street of San Gregorio Armeno famous?
For the craft workshops of the master crib-makers, open all year round: it is the famous 'street of the nativity scenes' of Naples.
What is there to see in the church of San Gregorio Armeno?
One of the richest Baroque interiors in the city and the cult of Saint Patricia, in the ancient monastic complex.
Where is San Gregorio Armeno?
In the old centre of Naples, between the main decumanus and the lower one.
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