Piazza del Plebiscito

In the heart of Naples, Italy, lies one of the grandest and most historically rich squares in the country: Piazza del Plebiscito. This expansive open space, covering approximately 25,000 square meters, is a focal point of Neapolitan life, culture, and history. It is a place where the past and present seamlessly blend, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the vibrant soul of Naples.

The Origins and Evolution of Piazza del Plebiscito

The history of Piazza del Plebiscito dates back to the mid-16th century when it was initially known as Largo di Santo Loise. This early iteration of the square emerged following the construction of a viceregal palace commissioned by Pedro Álvarez de Toledo y Zúñiga. The architects, Ferdinando Manlio and Giovanni Benincasa, undertook the task of expropriating land from nearby convents to create an open space and a road in front of the Church of Santo Loise.

The transformation into the grand square we recognize today began with the construction of the Royal Palace of Naples, designed by Domenico Fontana. Fontana's vision was to turn the new viceregal residence away from the bustling Toledo Street and towards a newly leveled open space, thus creating a dramatic architectural backdrop. This decision not only provided a stunning setting for the Royal Palace but also bridged the gap between the old city's enclosed space and the open marina.

The Viceregal and Bourbon Eras

During the viceregal and Bourbon periods, the square, then known as Largo di Palazzo, became the city's vital center and a prominent public area. Despite its importance, the square lacked a cohesive urban design, and successive viceroys focused on temporary architectural enhancements rather than a comprehensive plan. Notable additions included a majestic three-arched fountain and a colossal bust of Jupiter, known as the Gigante di Palazzo, created by Pietro Bernini and Michelangelo Naccherino.

The square often hosted elaborate decorations for royal events, as depicted in engravings by Nicolas Perrey. However, significant architectural interventions did not occur until the late 18th century with the construction of the Palazzo for the Bourbon State Ministers, designed by Francesco Sicuro, which prompted a new road layout and substantial urban changes.

The Napoleonic Transformation

The most dramatic transformation of the square occurred in the early 19th century during the Napoleonic era. King Joachim Murat, inspired by the urban renewal projects sweeping across France and Enlightenment Europe, sought to replace the irregular open space with a geometrically defined square. His vision aimed to infuse new life into one of Naples' key focal points, situated in front of the Royal Palace.

Murat's plan involved creating a monumental square with contrasting architectural elements, flanked by neutral structures. The 1809 law that ordered the suppression of monasteries in the Kingdom of Naples significantly expanded the square's area from 9,000 to over 23,000 square meters. This expansion allowed Murat to begin constructing the Great and Public Square, known as the Foro Gioacchino, under the direction of Neapolitan architect Leopoldo Laperuta, assisted by Antonio De Simone.

The Bourbon Restoration

With the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy, King Ferdinand IV halted Murat's plans and instead initiated the construction of a Christian church dedicated to Saint Francis of Paola, as a vow for the restoration of the Bourbon crown. The church, designed by architect Pietro Bianchi, featured a semicircular portico and statues of Charles and Ferdinand of Bourbon, sculpted by Antonio Canova. The resulting Piazza Ferdinandea, or Piazza di San Francesco di Paola, was inaugurated in 1846, preserving the general design of the square and the twin palaces.

The Modern Era

Following the plebiscite of October 21, 1860, which decreed the annexation of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies to the Kingdom of Italy, the square was renamed Piazza del Plebiscito. In 1885, a monumental fountain designed by Federico Travaglini was installed at the center of the square to celebrate the inauguration of the new Serino aqueduct. Although the fountain was later dismantled, a replica was briefly reinstated in 1985 for the aqueduct's centenary.

In 1963, a municipal ordinance transformed the square into a public parking lot to accommodate the city's growing number of cars. This arrangement remained until 1994, when the Bassolino administration restored the square's dignity by replacing the asphalt with traditional paving stones and pedestrianizing the area in preparation for the G7 summit.

A Hub of Modern Activity

Today, Piazza del Plebiscito serves as a vibrant stage for major events, from political rallies and musical concerts to national ceremonies and public funerals. From 1995 to 2009, contemporary art installations often adorned the square during the Christmas season, featuring works by artists such as Mimmo Paladino, Richard Serra, Rebecca Horn, and Luciano Fabro.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply a curious traveler, Piazza del Plebiscito offers a captivating journey through the layers of Naples' rich history and dynamic present. Its grand architecture, historical significance, and lively atmosphere make it an unmissable destination in this enchanting city.