Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore in Naples: history, legends and curiosities
Naples, with its rich history rooted in myths and legends, is a city that never ceases to fascinate. The historic centre of Naples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of history and tradition, and the Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore is one of its most emblematic symbols. Located in Piazza San Gaetano, in the beating heart of the ancient centre, the basilica rises majestically over the remains of an ancient Roman temple dedicated to the Dioscuri.
History and foundation of the Basilica di San Paolo Maggiore
The Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore is located in the heart of ancient Neapolis, on the area that once housed the Roman forum. On the remains of a temple dedicated to the Dioscuri – the mythological twins Castor and Pollux – two Corinthian columns adorning the main façade are still visible. The cult of the Dioscuri dates back to Greek antiquity: Castor and Pollux, sons of Zeus, are deities linked to the sky, the protection of sailors and, according to legend, healing.
The first church dedicated to St Paul was built between the 8th and 9th centuries to celebrate the victory of the Neapolitans against the Saracens, and was built just behind the pronaos of the Roman temple. In 1538, Viceroy Don Pedro de Toledo entrusted the management of the basilica to the Order of Theatines, founded by Gaetano da Thiene. After Gaetano’s death, the Theatines started a major renovation of the building.
A devastating earthquake – which occurred in 1688 – destroyed the façade of the ancient temple, but the basilica survived the changes, integrating the Sanctuary of San Gaetano da Thiene and the Church of the Santissimo Crocifisso, also known as Sciabica, into its complex. The Church of the Santissimo Crocifisso has an entrance located under the base of the ancient Roman temple.
The floor plan and frescoes of the Basilica
The floor plan of the Basilica di San Paolo Maggiore is in the shape of a Latin cross with three naves. The ceiling, unfortunately damaged during the bombing of World War II, still retains some frescoes of great artistic value. These include works by Massimo Stanzione depicting the victory of the Neapolitans over the Saracens and the figures of St Peter and St Paul.
In 1972, during restoration, two niches were discovered under the statues of St Peter and St Paul, which contained busts of the mythological twins Castor and Pollux. Today, these busts are on display at the National Archaeological Museum in Naples, as witnesses of a past that blends history and legend.
The cloisters of the Basilica of St Paul Major
The Basilica of St. Paul the Greater has two cloisters, built at the same time as the building between 1538 and 1630. The small cloister, with a square plan, houses an ancient well in the centre. According to a popular legend, this water, considered to be the freshest in the city, attracted many worshippers. This legend has its roots in the Greek cult of the Dioscuri, whose myths were linked to water and healing.
According to the myth, Zeus, the father of the twins Castor and Pollux, turned into a swan to join Leda, mother of the twins. The swan, symbol of purity and strength, is an animal linked to water, which in the cult of the Dioscuri represented the healing power of this natural resource. Castor and Pollux, although immortal deities, were also linked to death, in a balance between life and death reflected in the healing powers of the fresh water of the cloister of San Paolo Maggiore.
A journey through history and legend
In conclusion, the Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore is one of the must-see stops on a trip to Naples, a place where history, art and legends intertwine. With its rich architecture, extraordinary frescoes and the legends that animate its spaces, the basilica offers a unique opportunity to explore the deep connection between the city and its myths. Finally, remember that adjacent to the basilica, on the left side, you can access one of the most evocative wonders of Naples: we are talking about our Naples Underground. A veritable labyrinth of tunnels and catacombs that tell the city’s thousand-year history. A unique experience to immerse yourself in the mystery and hidden beauty of Naples.