On May 10, 1734 Charles of Bourbon conquered the kingdom of Naples and in the years following built the Royal Palace of Caserta, as the epicentre of his new kingdom. The grand palace was designed by King Charles’ architect Luigi Vanvitelli, who was one of the most prominent architects of the 18th century. The palace is a wonderful example of Italian Baroque architecture and considered quite ahead of its time, borrowing design elements from the Palace of Versailles in France and other 16th century villas in Italy. The 11 acres of parkland and gardens complete with fountains, cascades and a wonderful collection of sculptures are truly spectacular. The Royal Palace of Caserta has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a visit here will transport you back in time, so get ready for a royal time. 

The Royal Palace of Caserta: a home fit for kings

A masterpiece of Italian Baroque, the Royal Palace of Caserta enchants visitors with its majestic, frescoed rooms, spectacular gardens and the impressive Fountain of Diana and Actaeon. Join us as we discover what to see at the Royal Palace of Caserta.

The interiors of the Royal Palace

With almost 1200 rooms over 5 floors and divided into common areas and royal apartments, exploring the interior of the palace is a fascinating experience. A true example of opulence with beautifully frescoes ceilings, gilded staircases and brilliant chandeliers, all exuding pure luxury and decadence. 

-The grand staircase: two grand staircases that rise 32 metres linking the lower and upper vestibules, decorated with enormous marble lion statues, with captivating arches leading into the Palatine Chapel.

-The Palatine Chapel: a splendid example of Baroque, and Renaissance styles, this chapel was heavily damaged during WWII and restorations are still underway to return it to its former glory.

-The throne room:  completed in 1845, the ceiling of this impressive room is decorated with a wonderful fresco by Gennaro Maldarelli and served as a reception and waiting room for when important visitors came.

The Royal Park: a green and luscious wonderland

Inspired by the park at Versailles and spanning 120 hectares, complete with a hunting lodge, a silk factory, manicured gardens and grand fountains. The park embodies the trends of the time by perfectly combining a leisure space for the royals with spaces for botanical research, with hundreds of exotic plant species still growing there today.  One of its most picturesque locations is the English Garden, complete with a lake and artifcial historical ruins that, together with the impressive collection of plants growing there, make this a magnificent space to explore. Climb to ‘the dungeon’ an artificial cave from which you can enjoy spectacular views of the entire park along with Mount Vesuvius and the island of Capri.

-The Caroline Aqueduct: an impressive aqueduct that carries water from the foot of Mount Taburno right to the park of the Royal Palace of Caserta.

-The Fountain of Diana and Actaeon: a magnificent fountain rich in symbolism and one of the most striking pieces of art in the whole Royal Palace, created by Paolo Persico at the end of the 18th century.

Visiting the Royal Palace of Caserta

The Royal Palace of Caserta is open to visitors all year round and closed on Tuesdays. However, the extensive and beautiful gardens are best enjoyed during the spring and summer months. If you wish to visit the English Gardens, the park and the contemporary art exhibition, then setting aside a whole day is best. Visitors can either meander at their own pace through the historic apartments and grounds or partake in a guided tour. There are also bikes that can be rented to explore the park and even a horse and carriage., if you are feeling decadent.

Luxury Shopping at Fiumicino airport

During your journey to discover the wonders of the Royal Place of Caserta your departure from area E of Rome Fiumicino airport can turn into a moment of pleasure: the Personal Shopper service offers you a personalised shopping experience, perfect for completing your itinerary with class.

Transport at Fiumicino airport

At Fiumicino airport you will also find excellent transport connections, with the train station located near the arrivals and departure terminals, offering regular connections to Rome for easy onward travel to the rest of Italy.

The Royal Palace of Caserta is a magnificent showcase of Baroque and Renaissance styles, a true Italian masterpiece and an excellent day out for the whole family.  With luxurious interiors fit for the royalty they were built for and an expanse of marvellous gardens to explore by foot, by bike or by horse and carriage, a visit to the historic Royal Palace of Caserta will enchant even the most discerning of visitors.

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