“Did you know that this architectural gem, the Gallerie d’Italia, wasn’t always a museum?” I ask, gesturing towards the imposing building. The Gallerie d’Italia, once the headquarters of the Banco di Napoli, has a history as rich and layered as the art it houses. Designed by Marcello Piacentini in the late 1930s, this building underwent a remarkable transformation in 2022. Architect Michele De Lucchi, a master of modern design, took on the challenge of blending contemporary aesthetics with the building’s historical grandeur. The result? A stunning 10,000 square meters of exhibition space, a testament to Intesa Sanpaolo’s dedication to art and culture. But it’s not just about the building. Inside, you’ll find a treasure trove: a selection of paintings and sculptures that tell the story of Neapolitan and Southern Italian art from the 17th to the 20th centuries. And the crown jewel? Caravaggio’s poignant masterpiece, “The Martyrdom of Saint Ursula.” This work, completed just weeks before the artist’s death, is a poignant reflection on mortality and artistic passion.
Fontana delle Conchiglie
This unassuming fountain, the Fontana delle Conchiglie, holds a secret. It wasn’t always meant to stand alone. Built in 1938