Why is this church called Santa Maria di Montesanto when it’s miles away from any mountain? We’re standing before the Chiesa di Santa Maria di Montesanto, a church that whispers tales of a different mountain, far from the rolling hills surrounding Naples. This church, built by Carmelite friars from Montesanto in Sicily, stands as a testament to their journey. The Chiesa di Santa Maria di Montesanto, with its grand facade completed by Angelo Viva in the 19th century, showcases Our Lady of Carmel. But step inside, and you’ll discover a treasure trove of art and history. Inside the Chiesa di Santa Maria di Montesanto, look for the dramatic canvases by Paolo De Matteis—Saint Michael Archangel and the Miracle of St. Anthony. In the transept, witness a poignant 18th-century sculpture by Nicola Fumo – the Crucifixion with Madonna and St. John the Baptist. And listen closely, for within these walls lies the tomb of the renowned composer, Alessandro Scarlatti, his final resting place marked by a poignant Giuseppe Simonelli painting of Saint Cecilia. The Chiesa di Santa Maria di Montesanto, a testament to faith and artistry, echoes with the melodies of centuries past.
Fontana delle Conchiglie
This unassuming fountain, the Fontana delle Conchiglie, holds a secret. It wasn’t always meant to stand alone. Built in 1938