Pio Monte della Misericordia Museum

Pio Monte della Misericordia is a historic confraternity and church in central Naples founded as a charitable brotherhood; it is best known for housing Caravaggio’s painting ‘The Seven Works of Mercy’. The institution combines religious functions with a small museum and gallery spaces.

The principal attraction is the confraternity chapel where the Caravaggio canvas occupies the high altar area and is presented in its original ecclesiastical setting. Visitors also see related paintings and exhibits that document the brotherhood’s charitable mission and the church’s artistic holdings.

The confraternity was established in the early 17th century as a lay charitable institution and commissioned significant works of art for its church; the building and collection reflect the Naples Baroque religious and artistic environment. Over time, the site has been preserved as both a functioning church and a cultural site open to visitors.

Pio Monte della Misericordia is located in Naples’ historic centre, within walking distance of other major churches and squares in the city core.

• Caravaggio’s painting: Home to Caravaggio’s major painting ‘The Seven Works of Mercy’, which is installed in the church as an integral part of its devotional layout.

What to See#

• Confraternity chapel: The church interior houses the confraternity chapel where the Caravaggio altarpiece is installed, forming the central devotional space.
• Oratory and museum rooms: Museum and exhibition rooms present the history of the confraternity and the church’s art collection in adjoining spaces.

• See the sacristy early in the day to view Caravaggio's The Seven Works of Mercy without the heavier crowds that form later in Naples' historic centre.
• Check opening times and whether access to the painting room requires a separate ticket or guided entry - the chapel housing the masterpiece is small and entry control is common.
• Look beyond the single famous canvas: take a moment to notice the rest of the confraternity's chapel decoration and small museum rooms, which many visitors skip after seeing the Caravaggio.