Had anyone told you about the unusual heart of the Chiesa della Santissima Trinità? No, I’m not talking about a sacred relic. I’m referring to its architecture! The Chiesa della Santissima Trinità dei Pellegrini, right before your eyes, holds a fascinating secret within its walls. Imagine stepping inside and finding not a traditional cross-shaped layout, but two octagons joined by a rectangle. This unexpected design, the work of architect Giovanni Antonio Medrano, gives the Chiesa della Santissima Trinità a unique charm. One octagon serves as the nave, where worshippers gather, while the second forms an intimate oratory for prayer and reflection. Connecting them is the rectangle, housing the presbytery. But the surprises don’t end there. Look closely, and you’ll discover exquisite stucco work by Angelo Viva, gracing the facade with statues of San Filippo Neri and San Gennaro. Inside, more of Viva’s artistry awaits, this time adorning the high altar. Adding further layers of beauty are paintings by Paolo De Matteis, depicting touching scenes of St. Joseph with the Christ Child. And if you’re drawn to intricate details, don’t miss the opulent choir, also designed by Medrano in 1754, a symphony of stucco embellishments. The Chiesa della Santissima Trinità dei Pellegrini is a testament to the artistry and devotion that flourished in Naples, inviting you to uncover its hidden gems.
Fontana delle Conchiglie
This unassuming fountain, the Fontana delle Conchiglie, holds a secret. It wasn’t always meant to stand alone. Built in 1938