Royal Palace of Caserta

Charles III of Spain and VII of Naples, one of the most charismatic and visionary monarchs in Naples’ history, commissioned a residence, the Reggia (or Royal Palace) of Caserta, whose immense size and magnificence was comparable to the Palace of Versailles and became an expression for the enlightened and cosmopolitan spirit of his government. The grandiose project designed by Luigi Vanvitelli was started in 1752 and ended nearly a century later.
The 5 storey building, has a rectangular plan that extends for about 47,000m² and contains 1,200 rooms, 34 staircases and 1,742 windows. A grand staircase leads up to the vestibule, then into the Royal apartments. The Royal Palace is surrounded by a vast park, which includes a charming English garden, an elegant and beautiful corner decorated with caves, waterfalls, exotic plants, fountain and a charming little lake with a statue of Venus preparing to bathe.