Castel Sant'Elmo — Attraction in Naples

Located at Via Tito Angelini, 20/A, 80129 Naples NA, Italy 🇮🇹 Castel Samt’Elmo is at the top of Vomero Hill, this makes it a steep climb. The best way is to use one of the funiculars that ascend Volmero Hill. There are three funiculars, but the best one to use is the ‘Funicolare di Montesanto’ which stops the closest. The single ticket on the funicular is 1.10€, or we got the Metro Day ticket for 4.50€. Admission to Castel Sant’Elmo is 2.50€ and it’s open daily from 8.30am until 7.30pm (last entry at 6.30pm). The view from Castel Sant’Elmo is fantastic view from the hinterland to the islands and from the Sorrento peninsula to Mt. Vesuvius. This is an extremely popular destination for tourists. The first documentation of Castel Sant’Elmo dates back to the second half of the 13th century. Roberto of Anjou commissioned the architect and sculptor Tino di Camaino to begin work on Castel Sant' Elmo in 1329. Between 1537 and 1547 Viceroy Don Pedro de Toledo started reconstruction work. The result is the hexagonal fortress we know today. An explosion in 1587 destroyed much of the castle. The Castle of Sant' Elmo became more famous for its role in the Revolution of 1799. A group of intellectuals seized the fortress and proclaimed the Neapolitan Republic. This is entirely inspired by the French Revolution. In the 19th century, the fortress served as a prison. First by the Bourbons, then by the National Guard. After restoration works, Castel Sant' Elmo became the headquarters of the Polo Museale della Campania, the museum network of Campania. I really enjoyed my visit to Castel Sant’Elmo. The views were amazing and you can get some fantastic photos. The castle is really interesting, the history behind it is fascinating. There’s a long corridor that takes you to the top of the castle but there’s really not much else to see in the castle. I think the high point was the view. I would still come for the view if nothing else....

Castel Sant'Elmo is a medieval fortress located on Vomero Hill adjacent to the Certosa di San Martino, overlooking Naples, Italy.

The name "Sant'Elmo" derives from a former 10th-century church dedicated to Sant'Erasmo, shortened to "Ermo" and, finally altered to "Elmo".

Located near the upper terminus of the Petraio, one of the city's earliest pedestrian connections between upper and lower Naples, the fortress now serves as a museum, exhibition hall, and offices.

There are now several permanent art exhibits in the castle, including a railing more than 30 feet long carrying an braille inscription, installed in 2015 above the drill grounds on the northernmost wall of the castle near the west corner.

Two other installations include a large metal helmet near the railing and a conical metal sculpture, approximately 15 feet in diameter at the bottom, with cutouts in the drill grounds.

I suggest visiting the place early in the morning, that way you will avoid the long line at the entrance for issuing tickets, you will enjoy the place in peace and you will be able to take panoramic photos as as the time goes by a lot of people gather. I really enjoyed my visit here. clean toilets, delicious coffee, well-kept courtyard. Unique opportunity to see the entire city at a panoramic level. Definitely...

My visit to Castel Sant’Elmo in Naples was truly unforgettable. Perched high on a hill, the castle offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the Bay of Naples, and Mount Vesuvius in the distance. The sheer scale of the views alone makes the trip worthwhile. The castle itself is impressive, with its imposing medieval architecture and star-shaped fortress design. As you explore, you can’t help but feel the weight of history in its ancient stone walls. Walking through the corridors and open courtyards, you get a real sense of its strategic importance over the centuries. One of the highlights of the visit was the serene atmosphere. Despite its historic significance and popularity, Castel Sant’Elmo never felt overcrowded, allowing time to soak in both the history and the stunning scenery at a leisurely pace. The exhibits within the castle provide interesting insights into its past and the role it played in defending Naples. For anyone visiting Naples, Castel Sant’Elmo is a must-see, offering not only a glimpse into the city’s rich history but also some of the most spectacular views you’ll find in the region. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to experience both culture and nature...