Villa Pignatelli

A remarkable museum situated in Naples, this is perhaps the most striking building along the Riviera di Chiaia, a road running along the coast of the Gulf of Naples. Built as a neo-classical residence at the behest of Ferdinand Acton in 1826, the villa is perched beautifully in the midst of long garden. It gives you a peek into the lives of aristocratic residences in Naples in earlier centuries. You can sit and relax here in the serene garden along the sea front, which has numerous exotic plants.
Purchased and expanded by the Rothschilds in 1841, Villa Pignatelli has changed its ownership quite a few times. The villa was once the residence of the Duke of Monteleone in 1867, till his grandmother Rosina Pignatelli decided to donate it to the state. The villa has a range of interesting exhibits. Its first floor has around three temporary exhibitions annually. The basement of the villa, on the other hand, has Banco di Napoli's treasures, its collection mainly consisting of 17th to 19th century Neapolitan works. With their columns and statues, its sun-kissed terraces are a sight to take in. From floor-length mirrors to glass chandeliers to gilded paneling, each speaks of the grandiosity of the villa. You will also be interested in the Museo delle Carrozze, a carriage museum exhibiting carriages from Neapolitan, English, and French eras. The villa can be reached via Metro Linea 2 and then getting off at the Piazza Amedeo stop. Villa Pignatelli is ticketed for tourists but is free for EU citizens under the age of 18.