Castel Sant'Elmo, Naples

Castel Sant'Elmo is the medieval fortress spread across Vomero Hill, beside the Certosa di San Martino and above Naples. Its unusual six-pointed star plan, created between 1537 and 1547 by the military architect Pedro Luis Escriva, was designed to suit the steep ground and defensive purpose. The walls are built from volcanic tufa, and the fortress still preserves its original structure despite repeated rebuilding.

Look toward the entrance portal for the imperial emblem of Charles V: a double-headed eagle above a marble inscription commemorating his reign and Pedro de Toledo's viceregal rule. The name Sant'Elmo traces back to a church dedicated to Saint Erasmus; its name changed through shortened forms until Elmo emerged. This stronghold has also been a place of confinement.

Tommaso Campanella was imprisoned here in 1604, and patriots of the Neapolitan Revolution were held here in 1799, including Gennaro Serra, Mario Pagano and Luigia Sanfelice. A lightning strike hit the gunpowder store in 1587, causing an explosion that destroyed the church, the chaplain's residence and military quarters. Today the fortress serves as a museum, exhibition venue and administrative site, with permanent art displays inside its restored spaces.