Caserta

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Discover Caserta: History and Main Attractions

Discover Caserta: History and Main Attractions

History of Caserta

Caserta is a city rich in history and culture, located in the Campania region, just a few kilometers from Naples. The city is famous for its magnificent Royal Palace, commissioned by Charles of Bourbon in the 18th century as a symbol of the power and grandeur of the Bourbon dynasty. The Royal Palace of Caserta, with its magnificent gardens and luxurious interiors, is considered one of the largest and most beautiful royal residences in the world. Caserta is not just its Royal Palace: the city and its surroundings offer many other historical and cultural attractions, making it a must-visit destination for those touring Campania.

Royal Palace of Caserta

The Royal Palace of Caserta is the masterpiece of architect Luigi Vanvitelli and represents one of the most imposing expressions of Italian Baroque. The palace, with its 1,200 rooms, is famous for its grandeur and beauty. The sumptuous interiors, with frescoes, sculptures, and period furnishings, offer a breathtaking view of 18th-century royal life. Visitors can explore the royal apartments, the state rooms, and the library, admiring the art and architecture of one of Europe’s most important royal palaces.

Royal Park

The Royal Park of Caserta is an immense garden that extends over 120 hectares, designed by Luigi Vanvitelli. The park is divided into two main parts: the Italian Garden and the English Garden. The Italian Garden features fountains, statues, and geometric flowerbeds, while the English Garden offers a more natural landscape, with exotic plants and small lakes. A walk in the park allows you to admire the numerous fountains, such as the Fountain of Diana and Actaeon, and the grand central avenue that leads to the impressive waterfall.

San Leucio Belvedere

The San Leucio Belvedere is a monumental complex located on the hills of Caserta, known for its historic silk manufacturing. Founded by Ferdinand IV of Bourbon, the San Leucio Belvedere was a true ideal city, where workers lived and worked in avant-garde conditions for the time. Today the site houses a museum dedicated to the history of silk, where you can see the original machinery and discover the techniques used. The Belvedere also offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the Royal Palace of Caserta.

Carolino Aqueduct

The Carolino Aqueduct is an impressive feat of hydraulic engineering designed by Luigi Vanvitelli to bring water from the Taburno Mountain springs to the Royal Palace of Caserta. The aqueduct, approximately 38 kilometers long, crosses several valleys and hills, and is characterized by imposing arches that still represent an 18th-century engineering masterpiece. One of the most spectacular parts of the aqueduct is the bridge over the Maddaloni River, with its three rows of overlapping arches. A visit to the Carolino Aqueduct offers a unique perspective on the grandeur and ingenuity of Bourbon projects.

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