Guide to the 18th-Century Royal Palace at Caserta, Park, Aqueduct of Vanvitelli, and San Leucio Complex

Introduction

Welcome to a comprehensive guide for your visit to the stunning 18th-century architectural marvels in the Campania region of Italy - the Royal Palace at Caserta, the adjacent Park, the Aqueduct of Vanvitelli, and the San Leucio Complex. These sites are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offer a unique insight into the grandeur of the Bourbon Kingdom during the 18th century.

The Royal Palace at Caserta

History and Architecture

The Palace was built between 1752 and 1780, under the rule of Charles III of Spain (King of the Two Sicilies). Designed by the architect Luigi Vanvitelli, it is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, inspired by Versailles. The Palace boasts an impressive 1,200 rooms and is surrounded by a vast park.

Highlights

• The King’s Apartments: A series of grand apartments showcasing the opulence of the Bourbon court.
• The Royal Chapel: A magnificent space adorned with frescoes and stunning stucco work.
• The Royal Library: With over 20,000 volumes, this library is a testament to the scholarly pursuits of the time.

The Park

The park surrounding the Palace covers an area of approximately 120 hectares and is divided into two parts - the English Garden and the Italian Garden.

English Garden

Characterized by rolling hills, serpentine paths, and various statues, this part of the park is designed to mimic the natural landscape.

Italian Garden

With formal geometrical patterns, the Italian Garden is a symmetrical arrangement of fountains, pools, and hedges.

The Aqueduct of Vanvitelli

Designed by Luigi Vanvitelli as part of the water supply system for the Palace and San Leucio, this 36-km long aqueduct is a marvel of engineering. It still supplies water to the area today.

The San Leucio Complex

A short distance from Caserta, the San Leucio Complex was established by Charles III as an experimental farm and artisanal workshops.

Highlights

• Porcelain Factory: The Porcellana di San Leucio is known for its exquisite blue on white porcelain.
• Textile Manufacture: Known for its silk production, the textile manufacture at San Leucio was one of the most advanced in Europe during the 18th century.
• Royal Villa: A smaller version of the Palace, the villa served as a retreat for Charles III.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

The sites are generally open from Tuesday to Sunday, with varying hours depending on the season. It is advisable to check the official website for the most accurate information.

Tickets and Guided Tours

Tickets can be purchased online or at the site. Guided tours in multiple languages are available.

Accessibility

The sites are largely wheelchair accessible, with lifts provided where necessary. However, some parts of the Park may require a degree of mobility.

Conclusion

Your visit to these stunning 18th-century sites promises an unforgettable journey through the opulence and grandeur of the Bourbon Kingdom. Enjoy your exploration!