Dimora Donna Elena: A Charming Holiday in Piazza del Gesù

Dimora Donna Elena is located in the historic Pignatelli di Monteleone – Degas palace, in the heart of the “historic center of Naples” (UNESCO heritage since 1995); it is one of the splendid buildings that surround the enchanting Piazza del Gesù.

A bit of history

Piazza del Gesù is situated along Spaccanapoli and is one of the most famous squares in Naples. Characterized by the “Basilica di Santa Chiara” and the “Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo” facing it, as well as the “Obelisco dell’Immacolata” standing in the center, it takes its name from the homonymous church and originated at the end of the 13th century by the will of Carlo II d’Angiò.

It begins to take its current identity with the construction, in 1470, of Palazzo Sanseverino (today the seat of the “Chiesa del Gesù Nuovo”), a meeting point and reference for literati and artists. Ferrante, the last prince of Salerno from the Sanseverino family and owner of the palace, enjoyed engaging and exchanging ideas with them. The palace is purchased by the Jesuits in 1552 after Ferrante is banished from the Kingdom of Naples for supporting the popular revolt against the Inquisition.

“L’ Obelisco dell’Immacolata”

Looking a bit further, at the center of the square, you can admire the imposing “Obelisco dell’Immacolata”, 22 meters high, built in 1750. It is adorned with marble decorations and features a golden statue of the Immaculate Virgin at the top, representing one of the major examples of Baroque sculpture in the city.

Curiosities:

Every year, on December 8th, the day of the Immaculate Conception, the mayor pays tribute to the statue of the Madonna with a bouquet of roses, brought by the firefighters to the top. This tradition began with an agreement in 1818 between Pope Pius VII and King Ferdinand I of Bourbon. The veil covering the head of the statue, when viewed from behind, resembles a stylized face symbolizing Death, complete with a hunchback and a sickle in hand.

“Basilica di Santa Chiara”

A short walk away, you will find the entrance to the Cloister of the “Monastero di Santa Chiara”, the largest Gothic basilica in the city, which, victim of bombing in 1943 that almost completely destroyed its interior, was rebuilt in the following 10 years.

Additionally, facing Piazza del Gesù are two monumental palaces: Palazzo Pandola, built in late Baroque architecture with a neoclassical façade, originally an expansion of Palazzo Pignatelli; and our Palazzo Pignatelli di Monteleone, erected in the 16th century and restored in the 18th century, famous for being the residence of the renowned painter Edgar Degas and now home to the elegant rooms of the Donna Elena Residence.

The Donna Elena Residence is the ideal place for a romantic stay or a vacation to discover the wonders of Naples. From here, you can easily reach the city’s main attractions, such as Maschio Angioino, Castel dell’Ovo, the National Archaeological Museum, and the famous Spaccanapoli.

The Christmas season in Naples is an explosion of joy, colors, and unique flavors that capture the heart of everyone. And if you’re looking for the perfect place to spend the holidays, Dimora Donna Elena is the ideal choice. Discover the enchantment of Christmas in Naples with us and lives in an unforgettable experience.

Naples dresses up for the holiday season, transforming into a magical and charming place. The streets are illuminated with sparkling lights, creating a lovely atmosphere that envelops the city in a unique magic. Walk through the historic center and admire the art of the illuminations that make Naples even more events.

Christmas Events in Naples 2023

A must-see and highly impactful experience is a stroll through the artisan workshops of San Gregorio Armeno. A tradition in the heart of Naples that excites and brings to life the artistry of Neapolitan nativity scene craftsmen: nativity scenes as works of art to experience all the folklore of Christmas 2023 in Naples.

From December 1st to 18th, 2022, at Mostra d’Oltremare in Naples, a large trade fair venue, the Christmas Village – Naples takes place: a grand Christmas village with markets, an ice rink, play areas, events, workshops, and many guests.

This year marks the fourth edition of the Christmas Markets in Naples at the National Railway Museum of Pietrarsa. The charm of wooden huts, the melodies of street artists and street bands, the lights and colors of Christmas, the flavors and aromas of the food area with the presence of the main producers of Campania’s gastronomic excellence, will provide visitors with a unique journey between imagination and reality. An event to see, live, and savor, dedicated to both young and old, combining culture, tradition, and history with the magic of Christmas.

The Christmas Gospel Concert, the most anticipated Christmas event of the year, reaches its 9th edition. In the wonderful Basilica of San Lorenzo Maggiore in the historic center of Naples, the choir of Reverend Eric Waddell will bring his explosive Gospel Show for a performance with over 20 elements that promises to be full of rhythm, energy, and passion.

Christmas Kitchen in Naples, Unique Flavors to Savor

What do you eat in Naples at Christmas?

Traditionally, the menu is based on fish, while meat takes the spotlight on Christmas Day. A well-established custom over time, considering that the Neapolitan chef and literate Ippolito Cavalcanti, Duke of Buonvicino, spoke of it already in his famous “Trattato sulla cucina teorico-pratica” published in 1837.

Here are some typical dishes from the Neapolitan culinary tradition:

• Mixed cold cuts and fresh and aged cheeses as appetizers
• “La Menestella ‘e Natale” or “Minestra Maritata” (Married Soup)
• Insalata di Rinforzo (Pickled Cauliflower Salad)
• Neapolitan Struffoli (Honey Glazed Fritters)

The tradition of the fish market on the night of December 23, in the midst of Christmas

The entire night of December 23rd, the scent of fresh fish, along with the colors and lights of Christmas, recreates the authentic atmosphere of the past: it’s the unmissable Christmas fish market of Porta Nolana, or better known as Vico Soprammuro, also called the market ‘ncopp e mura. A tradition that repeats in many other fish markets in Naples.

Experience Christmas in Naples with Dimora Donna Elena and immerse yourself in a unique atmosphere that will leave you enchanted. Book your stay now and treat yourself to an unforgettable holiday in the most fascinating city in Italy.

Contact us to book your magical stay.