Veiled Christ
See the Veiled Christ, a magnificent marble sculpture in Naples by Giuseppe Sanmartino, up close! Did you know that when it first made, its lifelike form had people thinking Sanmartino used alchemy to create it?
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Visitor's guide
Must-see highlights & key info
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Explore the historic center of Naples and discover fascinating sights, streets, and secrets with your expert guide on a guided walking tour.
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Stroll along the lively Spaccanapoli street, lined with shops, restaurants, and vibrant alleys, offering a glimpse into Neapolitan life and culture.
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Visit Via San Gregorio Armeno, also known as ‘Christmas Alley’, for handcrafted nativity figurines and related items.
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Gaze at the iconic *Veiled Christ* as your guide narrates intriguing stories and tells you about the legend of the veil in your chosen language.
More details
-
Explore the historic center of Naples and discover fascinating sights, streets, and secrets with your expert guide on a guided walking tour.
-
Stroll along the lively Spaccanapoli street, lined with shops, restaurants, and vibrant alleys, offering a glimpse into Neapolitan life and culture.
-
Visit Via San Gregorio Armeno, also known as ‘Christmas Alley’, for handcrafted nativity figurines and related items.
-
Gaze at the iconic *Veiled Christ* as your guide narrates intriguing stories and tells you about the legend of the veil in your chosen language.
Pro tips to help you make a pick
Arrive before your scheduled entry time. You are allowed a grace period of 15 minutes after your reserved time to enter. Download the ticket PDF to your phone before you go, as signal can be spotty and you might not be able to pull up your email on the spot. The chapel is an 18th-century building adapted as a museum. Therefore, facilities, like restrooms or elevators, are limited.
Similar things to do in Naples
About Veiled Christ
The Veiled Christ, sculpted by Giuseppe Sanmartino in 1753, is a marble masterpiece in Naples’ Sansevero Chapel. Renowned for its lifelike veil carved from a single block, it depicts Jesus in death with extraordinary realism, blending artistic brilliance and emotional depth. It remains one of the world’s most admired sculptures.
Many believed the veil was created using alchemical techniques by Prince Raimondo di Sangro, who was rumored to be an alchemist. However, it is entirely carved from a single block of marble.
The famous sculptor Antonio Canova reportedly said he would give ten years of his life to have created the Veiled Christ, calling it an unparalleled masterpiece.
The sculpture was initially attributed to Antonio Corradini, who only completed a terracotta model before his death. Giuseppe Sanmartino completely reimagined it and brought his vision to life in marble.
Visitors, including celebrated Argentine writer Hector Bianciotti, have reported being overwhelmed by its beauty and realism, with some experiencing Stendhal Syndrome, an intense emotional reaction to art.
Prince Raimondo di Sangro paid Sanmartino 500 ducats for the sculpture, considered a significant sum in the 18th century, reflecting the importance of this masterpiece.
Why visit Veiled Christ?
Plan your visit
Closed on: Tuesday
Last entry: 30 minutes before closing time
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