We take you in the footsteps of the d'Avalos, an aristocratic family of Spanish origin that also put down roots in Italy from the 15th century. The Italian branch held numerous fiefs in the Kingdom of Naples and the Duchy of Milan, with prominent figures in politics, the military and the Church. For 195 years the family held the title of Grand Chamberlain, one of the seven great offices of the Kingdom, and with Cesare Michelangelo d'Avalos it gained the rank of Prince of the Holy Roman Empire and the right to mint coins.
This is an itinerary from the Stories and characters series, by car, to be enjoyed over about two days, with a 360° version also available on the regional portal.
The stops on the itinerary
1. Capodimonte Museum and Royal Forest
This is home to the d'Avalos Collection, begun in the 15th and 16th centuries and enriched over generations. It included family portraits by Titian, now scattered across museums around the world, the famous tapestries of the Battle of Pavia woven from cartoons by Bernard van Orley, and 17th-century Neapolitan canvases with mythological subjects, including works by Luca Giordano. In 1862 the last heir, Alfonso V, donated it to the new Italian State, and since 1957 most of the works have been at Capodimonte.
👉 Place page: Capodimonte National Museum
2. Palazzo d'Avalos, Naples
In the Chiaia district, it was built in the 16th century as the residence of the Marquises of Pescara and Vasto and renovated in 1751 by the architect Mario Gioffredo, who also designed the rooms of the family picture gallery.
👉 Place page: Palazzo d'Avalos del Vasto
3. Aragonese Castle, Ischia
It stands on an islet of volcanic rock 113 metres high, linked to Ischia Ponte by a masonry bridge about 220 metres long. One of the most spectacular fortresses in the Gulf.
👉 Place page: Aragonese Castle of Ischia
4. Palazzo d'Avalos, Procida
It dominates the Terra Murata: it was built at the end of the 16th century at the wish of Cardinal Innico d'Avalos, together with the walls. It later became a Bourbon royal palace, a military school and finally a prison, which closed in 1988. The complex also includes a courtyard, barracks, cell blocks and the agricultural Spianata.
Useful information
- Recommended transport: car (with ferries to the islands)
- Duration: 2 days
- Type: stories and characters, 4 stops
Source: Regione Campania – Ecosistema digitale per la cultura
