Things to Do and See in Caserta

When visiting this area, a trip to the famous Royal Palace of Caserta is an absolute must; it was in 1750 that Charles of Bourbon decided to build the palace as the ideal center of the new Kingdom of Naples, which had by then become autonomous and free from Spanish rule. The design for this imposing structure was entrusted to architect Luigi Vanvitelli and his son, Carlo Vanvitelli, who completed this magnificent royal residence in the following century. The Royal Palace is not the only testament to the great architectural development during the Bourbon period; the Belvedere di San Leucio Monumental Complex was developed at the behest of Ferdinand IV, who sought to create a small town dedicated to silk production. Today, visitors can explore the Silk Museum and a collection of restored, fully functional antique tools. Near Caserta, visitors can admire the charming town of Santa Maria Capua Vetere, home to the Roman-era Campanian Amphitheater, the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Capua, and the splendid Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore. Perched on a hill and featuring a typical medieval layout is the ancient village of Casertavecchia, characterized by narrow alleys and stone houses arranged around the Cathedral. There are also numerous regional parks in this area, offering a variety of activities, including hiking, trekking, horseback riding, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, rock climbing, and ice climbing.