Real Albergo dei Poveri in Naples to Become Major Arts Hub

Naples' 18th-century Real Albergo dei Poveri, one of Europe's largest such structures, will be transformed into a major cultural center. The project, backed by €100 million from Italy's National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), will repurpose over 100,000 square meters for museums, libraries, workshops, and hospitality. The initiative follows a protocol signed on March 8, 2023, between Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano and Naples Mayor Gaetano Manfredi. The first phase, starting by end of 2023, includes structural consolidation and restoration of the central courtyard. Future plans include a public library with large reading rooms and a conference hall seating over 1,000, exhibition spaces for the National Archaeological Museum of Naples (MANN) and other city museums, a specialization school of the University of Naples Federico II, and cultural events. The MANN will display the Santangelo Collection and works currently in storage. The involvement of hotelier Costanzo Jannotti Pecci suggests the complex may also host hotels and restaurants. The project aims to create a 'permanent factory of creativity, culture, training, social inclusion, and innovation' with national and international reach, revitalizing the surrounding area for tourism.