Complex of San Lorenzo Maggiore: The Gothic Church of Naples You Don't Expect

San Lorenzo Maggiore: a journey into the secret heart of Naples

The San Lorenzo Maggiore Complex is one of those places that really make you feel the weight and beauty of history. It is located in the beating heart of the historic center of Naples, among the noisy alleys full of tourists and life, but as soon as you enter its French Gothic-style church, silence welcomes you and time seems to stand still. Here, Giovanni Boccaccio, who wrote the Decameron, met his Fiammetta.

Built in 1270 at the behest of Charles of Anjou, the complex stands on a site rich in stratifications. In fact, under the Church, there are remains of the ancient Roman market, dating back to the first century AD and built on the ancient agora of the Greek Neapolis. These ruins can be visited today and constitute one of the most beautiful archaeological sites in the city.

Useful information for visiting the San Lorenzo Maggiore Complex:

Opening hours: Monday to Saturday: 9:00 - 19:00 / Sunday: 9:00 - 14:00

Note: Hours may vary during holidays or special events. It is advisable to check on the official website or contact the complex directly before your visit.

Tickets and costs: The cost of the entrance ticket is € 10.00. We suggest, to skip the line, to buy tickets preferably on online platforms such as Tiqets.

Recommendations: -Wear comfortable shoes, as the visit includes both indoor and outdoor routes.

- Consider booking a guided tour to learn more about the history and peculiarities of the place.

- If interested, check the availability of audio guides or information materials in different languages.

Dress code: It must be remembered that the Monumental Complex includes a Church, that is, a place of worship and consequently access always requires appropriate clothing for the place, so it is recommended to use a scarf or light scarf with which to cover legs and shoulders, if too uncovered.

Frequently asked questions about visiting the Complex of San Domenico Maggiore

What are the opening hours of the Monumental Complex of San Lorenzo Maggiore?
The complex is open daily from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

What is the cost of the entrance fee?
Full price: 10,00 € .Then there are reductions for young and old.

How can I buy tickets?
Tickets can be purchased  at the ticket offices  of the complex or more conveniently on online platforms such as Tiqets.

What languages are available for guided tours?
Guided tours are available in Italian and English.

Is booking required for guided tours?
Reservations are not mandatory, but it is recommended, especially during periods of high turnout, to guarantee a place on the guided tour.

How long does a guided tour last?
The duration of a guided tour is approximately 60 minutes.

Is the complex accessible to people with reduced mobility?
The entire monumental complex, with the exception of the archaeological areas, is easily accessible to wheelchair users, people with mobility difficulties and parents with strollers.

Are there dining options within the complex?
Inside the complex there are vending machines for snacks and cold drinks.

How can I reach the Monumental Complex of San Lorenzo Maggiore by public transport?
You can reach the complex by metro:

Line 1: "Dante" stop, then walk along Via Port'Alba and Via dei Tribunali (about 9 minutes).

Line 2: "Cavour" stop, then walk along Via Costantinopoli, Piazza Bellini and Via dei Tribunali (about 15 minutes).

A journey through time between the history and art of Naples

The San Lorenzo Maggiore Complex in Naples is one of the most fascinating places in the city, as it contains layers of history that span from the Greco-Roman period to the Middle Ages and beyond. It's like a journey through time, all in one place.

The current basilica was built between the 13th and 14th centuries by Franciscan friars, with the support of the Angevin dynasty. It was Charles I of Anjou who commissioned it and, according to tradition, it was in this very complex that Petrarch lived during his stay in Naples.

The church's style is a beautiful example of French Gothic, with a single nave and a deep choir. The stained glass windows and the architectural structure are therefore elegant, minimalist, and soaring toward the sky.

Next to the church lies the monastic complex, which today also houses a museum.

However, one of the most fascinating aspects is the underground of San Lorenzo. In fact, this is the only place in Naples where, by descending to the lower levels of the complex, you can walk through a genuine Roman Forum, where you can still see the streets, shops, drainage canals, and remains of the market. A buried piece of the ancient city that you can actually explore!