Castel Sant'Elmo: a medieval castle on the hill of Naples

Castel Sant'Elmo is a medieval-origined castle, dominating the Vomero hill. It stands in the place where, since the tenth century, a church was dedicated to St. Erasmus (from which Eramo, Ermo and then Elmo).

The decision to build this castle was taken by Roberto d'Angiò, who should had found its ideal location on top of the Vomero hill. This decision took place in occasion of a visit that the noble made to the Certosa di San Martino, at times under construction. 

The castle was the work of the Sienese architect Tino da Camaino, who also built the Certosa. 

When the builder died, the project was entrusted to Attanasio Primario and Francesco di Vico, and later to Balduccio de Bacza, who finally managed to finish the work in 1343, when the Kingdom was dominated by Giovanna I d'Angiò.

The Museum Novecento intends to document what was achieved in Naples during the twentieth century from 1910 to 1990 in the field of artistic production; in particular, by those who applied themselves, in those years, in painting, sculpture and graphic experimentation. In the Museum, realized in the rooms of the High Prison of Castel Sant'Elmo, they have been selected and exhibited about 230 works, realized by 116 Neapolitan artists, with the addition of some non-Neapolitan ones, who were active in the city in different roles.

The castle is even home to various temporary exhibitions, fairs and events.

Sant'Elmo, since December 2014, is part of the assets managed by Campania Museum Pole.

Castle: every day from 8.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m.; last admission 6.30 p.m. 

Museo Novecento in Naples: every day, except Tuesdays, 9.30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; last admission 4.15 p.m.  

Tuesday open for visits to Piazza d'Armi, the stands and the pedestrian walkways.