Naples’ basilica church of Santa Chiara is a monastic complex in the heart of Naples. Come to this peaceful haven inside a Franciscan citadel to see its a beautiful central cloister patio, to visit the Tomb of “Robert the Wise” or simply to enjoy the serenity.
The 14th-century “Monastero di Santa Chiara” encompasses a cloister, a church containing famous tombs and a small archeological museum. Santa Chiara was originally built in Provençal-Gothic style and destroyed by fire in 1943 when the Allies bombed Naples. After the war it was rebuilt and opened to the public. As you enter the church, the colorful mosaic floor is the first thing that stands out.
The Renaissance-era complex was commissioned by Queen Sancha of Majorca, the second wife of King Robert of Naples. Know as “the peace-maker of Italy” and nicknamed “Robert the Wise,” King Robert was praised for changing the future of Naples. Under his reign, Tuscan merchants were encouraged to build grand landmarks that turned the once considered “dirty” seaport of Naples into an elegant city full of statues.
King Robert’s body rests in an ornately carved marble tomb behind the main altar and other kings have been buried around him. Head to the side chapels to find the tomb of Salvo d’Acquisto, a soldier who died while trying to save 22 civilian hostages during World War II.
Browse the museum to learn more about the history of the church and admire its collection of Baroque nativity scenes. See local archaeological findings and items that survived the devastations of World War II.
To the right of the presbytery, explore the Baroque-style sacristy. In the Choir of the Nuns behind the sacristy, you can find the remains of frescoes by Giotto, depicting biblical stories. Don’t miss the courtyard of the cloister of the Clarisses with its Rococò-style tiled benches and arched walkways lined by even more frescoes.
Santa Chiara is centrally located in the Piazza del Gesù. Fees apply to enter the church and archaeological site with museum. It’s easiest to get here on foot, because parking in the Historical Center of Naples can be difficult during office hours.
