Reggia di Caserta
About
The Royal Palace of Caserta, also known as Reggia di Caserta, is an 18th‑century masterpiece of Italian Baroque and early Neoclassical architecture located in Caserta, 35 kilometres north of Naples. Dubbed the “Versailles of Italy,” the palace was commissioned by Charles VII of Naples to serve as the ceremonial residence of the Bourbon kings. With 1,200 rooms spanning five stories, the complex covers a sprawling 138,000‑square‑metre footprint and is surrounded by nearly 120 hectares of lavish gardens that echo Versailles’ grand vistas. The Kursouri fountains, cascades, and English‑style gardens designed by Luigi Vanvitelli and John Graefer create a harmonious blend of water features and landscaped terraces. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the palace offers visitors a rare glimpse into royal life, extraordinary frescoed halls, and a vast collection of sculptures and artworks that chronicle the artistic evolution of the Bourbon court. A typical visit takes about three hours and includes guided tours of the palace interior, the grand staircase, the royal apartments, and the expansive gardens. Its architectural grandeur, historical significance, and the joy of wandering through the beautifully manicured park make Reggia di Caserta a must‑visit attraction for anyone interested in royal heritage, Renaissance art, and landscape design.
Highlights
- Grand Staircase
- Royal Gardens
- UNESCO World Heritage Site
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
The palace is best visited in spring and autumn when the gardens are at their most verdant and the crowds are thinner.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 3 hours