The Guglia dell'Immacolata is an ornate Baroque spire in Piazza del Gesù Nuovo, in Naples’ historic center. Commissioned by the Jesuits in the 18th century, it was built as a tribute to the Virgin Mary after the city was spared plague and other disasters. Pause to look closely at its details, then explore the square’s churches and former palaces. The Church of Gesù Nuovo and Santa Chiara are nearby, and Spaccanapoli is easy to reach on foot.
The spire in Piazza del Gesù Nuovo
The Guglia dell'Immacolata, also called the Obelisk of the Immaculate Conception, stands at the center of Piazza del Gesù Nuovo. The Jesuits commissioned it in the 18th century as a tribute to the Virgin Mary, after Naples was spared plague and other disasters.
A different monument once occupied this spot: an equestrian statue dedicated to Philip V. The present spire is one of three guglie, or spires, in Naples’ historic center, and is noted for its intricate Baroque decoration.
Explore the surrounding square
Piazza del Gesù Nuovo is a spacious pedestrian square surrounded by churches and former palaces. The Church of Gesù Nuovo stands beside the former palace of the prince of Salerno; parts of the palace wall remain visible. The Church of Santa Chiara is also nearby.
From the square, continue on foot toward Spaccanapoli and the surrounding historic center. Local artists can be found in and around the piazza. The area has restaurants and businesses as well as historic buildings, so you can combine a look at the spire with a longer walk through the neighborhood.
Häufige Fragen
Where is the Guglia dell'Immacolata?
It stands in Piazza del Gesù Nuovo in Naples’ historic center.
What is near the Guglia dell'Immacolata?
The Church of Gesù Nuovo and the Church of Santa Chiara are nearby, as are former palaces and the walking route along Spaccanapoli.
How much time should I allow for the area?
Allow at least four hours if you plan to explore the square and its surroundings.
