Castel Nuovo

Just to the east of the Palazzo Reale, the Castel Nuovo rises on a bluff above the Porto Beverello, the dock from which the ferries leave for Capri and Sorrento. The Castel Nuovo (New Castle) certainly isn’t very new—it dates back to the 13th century. The building is definitely dramatic, a rectangular stone building punctuated by huge round stone towers. In the 15th century a splendid white marble Triumphal Arch was added, a true masterpiece whose beauty contrasts pleasantly with the stern, fortress like castle. A deep moat, originally filled with sea water, embraces the fortress. Within the museum you can visit the Museo Civico that contains 14th-century frescoes. It is also possible to visit the Palatine Chapel and the Baron’s Hall.