Castel Nuovo

Castel Nuovo — popularly known as Maschio Angioino — is a five-towered medieval fortress rising directly above Naples' harbour, begun in 1279 under Charles I of Anjou. Its most striking feature is the marble Triumphal Arch inserted between two towers by Alfonso V of Aragon to commemorate his entry into Naples in 1443, now considered a landmark work of early Renaissance sculpture. Over the centuries the castle served dual roles as royal residence and prison — its vaulted dungeons accumulated a catalogue of dark legends, and it hosted several popes alongside the kings of Naples and Sicily. Today it is a designated Italian national monument housing the Museo Civico, with medieval frescoes and bronze reliefs on display. Open Monday to Sunday, 9 am to 7 pm.