This church has an imposing tower also called the Masaniello's tower because its was one of the places where the 17th century revolution happened.
It rises in the hart of old Naples, between the two decumani which bounded the ancient Polis.
It was built between 1266 and 1324 at the request of King Charles d'Anjou immediately after the Battle of Benevento, to commemorate his victory over Manfredi.
On the same site stood a Paleochristian basilica.
Excavations carried out up to now have brought to light relics dating from between the 4th century BC and the 5th century AD.
The church was built in Provençal style by some French architects to whom the King had entrusted the project. because of its archaeological excavations it is perhaps one of the most visited churches in Naples.
It is said that Boccaccio numbered among its illustrious visitors and that it was here that he fell in love with Fiammetta.
The church itself has only recently been freed from all the additions and alterations which had stripped it of its original Gothic style. It was in fact modified following the earthquakes of 1451 and 1561, and in 1639 it was completely transformed, partly to increase its stability.
The columns were transformed into pillars, the floor was rebuilt and the interior was decorated with stuccowork so that only the portal maintains the original style.
This is part of the façade, designed by Sanfelice in the first half of the 18th century.
The interior consists of a huge aisleless nave with nine side-chapels.
To the right of the entrance is a 14th century Crucifix.
In the left hand part of the transept is the Tomb of Charles I of Durazzo.
The cycle of frescoes are excellent, and some of these, such as the History of the Virgin Mary, were carried out by a pupil of Giotto. This unknown painter has been named the "Master of the Barrile Chapel" (after the name of the chapel which contains the frescoes).
Other features of artistic note include the Tomb of Ludovico Aldomoresco by Baboccio; The Cacace Chapel, an important example of Neapolitan architecture in a fortunate 17th century setting (works by Fanzago, paintings by Stanzione), the Tomb of Catherine of Austria, by Tino di Camaino; the high altar, with its ancona by Giovanni da Nola (Saints Anthony, Francis and Lawrence).
The convent complex leads to the Archaeological Excavations which have revealed some remarkable testimonies of Graeco-Roman and early medieval settlements.
We said, before, that in
this church, probably, Boccaccio met Fiammetta.
The third literary women of the Italian Three under, after Beatrice and Laura, was
Neapolitan.
Gossipers say she was, in reality, the Princess Mary d'Anjou.
The city of Naples: Not all but of all on this magnificent city. Sees under a historical and cultural profile. http://www.dentronapoli.it
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