Naples Cathedral

Naples Cathedral (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, commonly called the Duomo di Napoli) is the archiepiscopal church of Naples, with major construction begun in the late 13th century and consecration completed in the early 14th century. It is the city’s principal cathedral and the seat of the Archbishop of Naples.

The interior combines Gothic structure with later Renaissance and Baroque decoration; highlights include the richly ornamented chapels, large frescoes and marble altars. The cathedral is best known for its association with Saint Januarius - it contains the saint’s relics and a large chapel with the church treasury. Visitors also often see the baptistery and archaeological remains under the building.

Construction began in the late 1200s under Angevin rule and the building was altered repeatedly in subsequent centuries, adding Baroque chapels and 19th century restorations to the medieval core. The Cappella del Tesoro became an important repository for donations and ex-votos, reflecting the cathedral’s long role as a civic and religious centre.

The cathedral sits in Naples’ historic centre on Via Duomo, in the district often called the Cathedral Quarter, within walking distance of other major historic streets such as Spaccanapoli and the main archaeological sites of the city.

• San Gennaro relics: The cathedral houses the relics of Saint Januarius and is the focal point for the traditional blood relic ritual associated with the saint.
• Treasure and museum: A treasury museum adjacent to the chapel displays jewellery, votive offerings and liturgical silver accumulated over centuries.

What to See #

• Cappella del Tesoro di San Gennaro: A richly decorated chapel that preserves the relics and treasure associated with Saint Januarius, including reliquaries, ex-votos and precious metalwork; the chapel is a major draw within the cathedral.
• Baptistery / Crypt: An early Christian baptistery and lower-level spaces beneath the cathedral that contain archaeological remains and early liturgical fittings dating back to Late Antiquity.
• Nave and Main Interior: The cathedral nave and transept area showing the mix of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque workmanship produced by successive restorations and additions across centuries.