La Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo in Naples is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and a unique blend of spiritual, artistic, and historical richness. The church’s striking façade, originally part of a palace, leads to an interior adorned with breathtaking frescoes, intricate sculptures, and a vibrant interplay of colors. However, one of its most intriguing features is its connection to Saint Giuseppe Moscati, a revered physician and saint.
Within the church, a small, lesser-known chapel is dedicated to Saint Giuseppe Moscati, who is celebrated for his pioneering medical work and compassionate care for the poor. His preserved quarters, including personal belongings and medical instruments, are accessible, providing a glimpse into his life of service. The tomb of Saint Moscati, housed in the chapel, serves as a spiritual focal point for pilgrims and admirers of his legacy.
Gesù Nuovo stands as more than just a church—it is a testament to Naples’ layered history, the fusion of art and faith, and the enduring legacy of a saint who combined science with spirituality. If you ever visit, don’t miss the chance to explore both the grandeur of the main church and the humility of Saint Moscati’s chapel, each offering a unique facet of this...
Read moreWhat a big surprise! There's a hidden gem behind that palace facade. You enter through the Baroque looking entryway at the Piazza of the same name.
We were totally amazed at what we saw inside this church. I would have never known based on its exterior. It's immensely grand and ornate as you walk inside. The ceiling and chapels are covered in Italian Baroque art from famous artists such as Francesco Solimena and Luca Giordano. There are alters made of precious stones and marble statues. All of which are saintly and historical.
I didn't realize it at the time, but people do go there to be healed. There is a chapel dedicated to a Naples doctor & saint named Giuseppe Moscati. His tomb lies under the chapel altar. He is known for taking care of the sick and the poor. There was a line of people waiting to enter a part of the church that houses his personal quarters and belongings. We didn't get to see it, so I can't comment on it. It's just something to consider seeing while you're there.
This whole area is full of historical churches. I mean, you could visit churches all day long if that's your thing. This is a great option if you only have time to visit one, and it's free to the public. They accept donations as most...
Read moreThe most important church built by the Jesuits in Naples. It is called "Jesus New" because the Jesuits had already built a Church of "Jesus" in 1568. The new church, begun in 1584 under the direction of the Jesuit architect P. Giuseppe Valeriano (1452-1596), was completed in 1601, dedicated to the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin, as well as to the Name of Jesus, and popularly called "Jesus New ". (source: gesunuovo.it) Church of Gesù Nuovo To build it (in 1584-97) the Jesuits reused the diamond-pointed ashlar façade of the great Sanseverino palace of the princes of Salerno (1470), according to a very widespread practice in Naples in the time, given the limited building spaces in the historic center and the ban on building outside the walls. The original, imposing dome collapsed due to an earthquake in 1688; rebuilt and still unsafe, it was replaced with a bowl-shaped architecture in 1786, after, starting from 1771, the body of the church had also been reinforced (counter-pillars and soffits) based on a design by...
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