Piazza Sisto Riario Sforza

Piazza Sisto Riario Sforza

The Naples audio-guided tour stops you on the small square of Cardinal Sisto Riario Sforza, behind the Duomo, on Via dei Tribunali. It is adorned with a fine sculpted column, the oldest obelisk in Naples, dedicated to Saint Januarius.

The obelisk of San Gennaro

The column was commissioned in 1636, after the eruption of Vesuvius in 1631, as part of an effort to safeguard the heritage and to thank the protecting saint. Its construction, slowed by many disagreements, was only completed in 1660. At its summit stands Saint Januarius, one of the patron saints of Naples. According to legend, the column replaced an ancient statue of a giant horse, destroyed with the advent of Christianity to put an end to pagan beliefs.

What there is to see

The obelisk, rich in sculptures, illustrates the deep link between Naples and its protecting saint, invoked against the eruptions of Vesuvius and disasters. The square, opposite a church and a museum housing works by Caravaggio, is a pleasant stop in the heart of old Naples, on the lively axis of Via dei Tribunali.

Practical information

Piazza Sisto Riario Sforza can be seen freely, in the open air, on Via dei Tribunali, behind the Duomo, in the historic centre of Naples. It is accessible at any time. The neighbouring church and museum, which hold works by Caravaggio, follow their own hours.

What is the oldest obelisk in Naples ?

It is the column on Piazza Sisto Riario Sforza, commissioned in 1636 and completed in 1660, topped by Saint Januarius.

Why was this obelisk erected ?

After the 1631 eruption of Vesuvius, in thanks to Saint Januarius, protector of the city against disasters.