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Square · Nápoles, Campânia
Piazza del Plebiscito
The largest square in Naples, between the Palazzo Reale and the church of San Francesco di Paola, with its semicircular colonnade.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Piazza del Plebiscito
The Piazza del Plebiscito (piazza = square) is the large open space of monumental Naples. On one side is the Palazzo Reale; on the other, the church of San Francesco di Paola, with a high dome inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, embraced by a semicircular colonnade. The name recalls the plebiscite of 1860 that united Naples with the Kingdom of Italy.
The square is closed to cars and serves as a venue for concerts and city events. The two equestrian statues in front of the church represent Bourbon kings Charles III and Ferdinand I.
Around it are other central points: the Teatro di San Carlo, one of the oldest opera houses still in operation, inaugurated in 1737; the Galleria Umberto I right behind it; the Gran Caffè occupying the corner with the Via Chiaia; and, descending toward the sea, the Via Partenope and the seafront. The Via Toledo, the main shopping street, starts just a few steps away.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half an hour for the square and the church; more if combined with the Palazzo Reale and the Galleria Umberto I.
Best time
It works well at any time. In the late afternoon the light hits the colonnade and the square fills with people strolling.
How to get there
Metro Line 1, Municipio or Toledo station, and a few minutes on foot. From Molo Beverello it's about a ten-minute walk.
Tip
Combine the square, the Palazzo Reale, the Teatro di San Carlo and the Galleria Umberto I in the same walk: they're all within a few steps. Coffee in the area is strong and served short, standing at the counter.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Piazza del Plebiscito
Can the church of San Francesco di Paola be visited?
Yes, it is usually open for visits and masses. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter.
Is the Teatro di San Carlo nearby?
Yes, next to the Palazzo Reale, a few steps from the square. There are guided tours of the theatre at set times; check before you go.
Is the square good for children?
Yes. It's spacious, closed to cars and has room to run.