Royal Palace of Caserta
Latest page update: 13 February 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The Royal Palace of Caserta was built in 1752 and is situated at the edge of the city of Caserta. It's famous not only for its palace building but for its magnificent garden, one of the finest in Italy.
Since 1997 it's been a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the full heading of 18th-Century Royal Palace at Caserta with the Park, the Aqueduct of Vanvitelli, and the San Leucio Complex. |
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Royal Palace of Caserta: 18th century Bourbon Palace and UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Royal Palace of Caserta, known as Reggia di Caserta, is an immense and lavish Baroque-style palace located in the town of Caserta, in the Campania region of Italy. Commissioned by King Charles of Bourbon in the 18th century, it is one of the largest and most impressive royal residences in Europe. The palace was designed by the architect Luigi Vanvitelli and serves as a stunning example of royal architecture, blending grandiose design with natural beauty.
The exterior of the palace is a magnificent display of Baroque splendor, with a long, symmetrical facade that stretches over 250 meters. Its stately appearance is complemented by beautifully landscaped gardens and expansive grounds that span more than 120 hectares. The palace's formal gardens are divided into an Italianate style with fountains, statues, and perfectly manicured paths, while the parkland beyond stretches into woodlands and ponds, offering a harmonious connection between architecture and nature.
Inside, the Royal Palace is equally impressive. The interiors feature an array of grand rooms, including the majestic Royal Apartments, which are adorned with intricate frescoes, marble floors, and luxurious furnishings. The Throne Room, the Hall of Mirrors, and the impressive staircase are among the highlights, showcasing the opulence and taste of the Bourbon dynasty. The extensive palace also houses the Royal Chapel, which boasts a beautiful neoclassical design.
The palace grounds also include a large system of fountains, most notably the impressive Fountain of Diana and Actaeon, which creates a dramatic water feature that extends from the base of the palace all the way to the horizon. The Royal Palace of Caserta was also used as a backdrop for several film productions, including *Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace*, further cementing its significance in both history and popular culture.
The exterior of the palace is a magnificent display of Baroque splendor, with a long, symmetrical facade that stretches over 250 meters. Its stately appearance is complemented by beautifully landscaped gardens and expansive grounds that span more than 120 hectares. The palace's formal gardens are divided into an Italianate style with fountains, statues, and perfectly manicured paths, while the parkland beyond stretches into woodlands and ponds, offering a harmonious connection between architecture and nature.
Inside, the Royal Palace is equally impressive. The interiors feature an array of grand rooms, including the majestic Royal Apartments, which are adorned with intricate frescoes, marble floors, and luxurious furnishings. The Throne Room, the Hall of Mirrors, and the impressive staircase are among the highlights, showcasing the opulence and taste of the Bourbon dynasty. The extensive palace also houses the Royal Chapel, which boasts a beautiful neoclassical design.
The palace grounds also include a large system of fountains, most notably the impressive Fountain of Diana and Actaeon, which creates a dramatic water feature that extends from the base of the palace all the way to the horizon. The Royal Palace of Caserta was also used as a backdrop for several film productions, including *Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace*, further cementing its significance in both history and popular culture.
Reggia di Caserta
Comune: Caserta
Province: Caserta Region: Campania Built: 1752 Close by: Naples, Baia Domizia, Benevento, Avellino Fly to: Naples International Airport - 24 minutes (26 km) Recommended accommodation: Plana Hotel (1.9 km) |
UNESCO World Heritage Site
18th Century Royal Palace at Caserta with the Park, the Aqueduct of Vanvitelli, and the San Leucio Complex
Year: 1997
18th Century Royal Palace at Caserta with the Park, the Aqueduct of Vanvitelli, and the San Leucio Complex
Year: 1997