Palazzo Gravina is a Renaissance palace on Via Monteoliveto in central Naples, now home to the architecture faculty of Federico II University. Ferdinando Orsini commissioned it, and Giovanni Francesco di Palma designed it. Look for the volcanic-stone façade, Renaissance details and sculpted heads above the windows. Inside, the central courtyard has marble arches. The palace also hosts cultural events, though university use means weekdays are a better time to visit if you want to avoid crowds.
A palace built for the Orsini family
Ferdinando Orsini commissioned Palazzo Gravina in the early 16th century. Construction took place between 1513 and 1549, with Giovanni Francesco di Palma responsible for the design. The palace was later extended: a large doorway was added in 1772, followed by another storey in 1839.
A fire badly damaged the building in 1848. It was restored after the damage, and today it houses the architecture faculty of Federico II University of Naples.
Stonework and the courtyard
The façade is built from volcanic stone and arranged with Renaissance details, including string-course frames and pilaster strips. Sculpted heads above the windows are among the details to look for from the street.
The original frescoes have not survived. Inside, the central courtyard remains a key architectural feature, with marble arches. The palace also hosts cultural events; check ahead to see whether one is scheduled during your visit.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Palazzo Gravina?
It is at Via Monteoliveto 3 in Naples.
What is Palazzo Gravina used for today?
It houses the architecture faculty of Federico II University of Naples and hosts cultural events.
What should I look for at Palazzo Gravina?
Notice the Renaissance details and sculpted heads on the volcanic-stone façade, then look into the central courtyard with its marble arches.
