Cimitero delle Fontanelle Naples
A vast ossuary in a tuff cave, housing millions of bones and a unique tradition of devotion to the 'poor souls'.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Cimitero delle Fontanelle Naples
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast ossuary in a tuff cave, housing millions of bones and a unique tradition of devotion to the 'poor souls'.
"A place where memory becomes ritual, prayer, and a deep connection between the living and the dead."
Book tours in advance
Check current access; tours are often the best way to visit. :admission_tickets:
Wear comfortable shoes
The ground can be uneven. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ossuary Caves
Inside the tuff cave
Thousands of skulls and bones meticulously arranged, creating a unique and somber spectacle.

The Chapel of the Madonna
Central area
A small chapel where visitors can leave prayers and offerings, a testament to enduring faith.

The 'Anime Pezzentelle'
Throughout the cemetery
Skulls adorned with offerings, representing the 'poor souls' to whom locals entrust their hopes.
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Status Before You Go
Respect the Sacred Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book tours in advance
Check current access; tours are often the best way to visit. :admission_tickets:
Wear comfortable shoes
The ground can be uneven. :athletic_shoe:
Be respectful
This is a place of worship and remembrance. :pray:
Explore the Sanità district
Combine with Catacombs of San Gaudioso nearby. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book tours in advance
Check current access; tours are often the best way to visit. :admission_tickets:
Wear comfortable shoes
The ground can be uneven. :athletic_shoe:
Be respectful
This is a place of worship and remembrance. :pray:
Explore the Sanità district
Combine with Catacombs of San Gaudioso nearby. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are often struck by the unique and somber atmosphere of the Cimitero delle Fontanelle, finding it a deeply moving and historically significant site. The sheer scale of the ossuary and the local devotion to the 'anime pezzentelle' leave a lasting impression. However, some find the experience intense, and access can sometimes be inconsistent, leading to potential disappointment if not planned carefully.
"Still closed as for 28/02/2025 🥲 useless walk for the 2nd time in 3 years, update your opening times!!! And let me know when u open 🤣"
Alessandro Rotondo
"Incredibly eerie and spooky cemetery, large cave with an incredible amount of skulls & bones, a must see if you’re in Naples, Located in the Materdei section, Fontanelle cemetery contains the remains of some 40,000 persons, many victims of WWII and the plague, it’s free to enter, with a donations box. Can’t recommend it enough, real eye opener 🙌🏼"
Mikey Walton
"Very interesting cemetery. Free entrance and the man at the entrance loves to give a little speech about the place. (Also free, but you can give him a tip.)"
Roel Wouters
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach the Cimitero delle Fontanelle by taking a bus (like lines 150, 151, or C44) or a taxi from the city center. It's located in the Sanità district. Some visitors also find it a manageable walk from certain parts of the city, though it involves uphill sections. :bus: :taxi:
Parking in the Sanità district can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited spaces. It's often easier to use public transport or a taxi if you're not familiar with the area. :car:
Yes, you can walk, especially if you are staying in the historic center. Be prepared for some uphill climbs as it's situated on a hillside. The walk offers a glimpse into local Neapolitan life. :walking:
Many visitors recommend exploring the Sanità district on foot to soak in the authentic atmosphere. Consider visiting the Catacombs of San Gaudioso and the Fontanelle Cemetery together for a comprehensive experience of this unique neighborhood. :neighborhood:
From the historic center, you can head towards the Materdei or Sanità areas. Following signs for the 'Cimitero delle Fontanelle' will guide you. Using a GPS app on your phone is highly recommended. :iphone:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The status of public access has varied. While it's a significant historical site, it's advisable to check for current opening hours and whether independent visits are permitted or if booking a guided tour is necessary. Some sources indicate it's not always open for spontaneous visits. :information_desk:
It's recommended to book tickets or tours in advance, especially if you wish to visit independently or join a guided tour. Websites for tours often list current availability and booking procedures. :ticket:
Opening hours can be inconsistent. Historically, it has been open during daylight hours, but it's crucial to confirm the most up-to-date schedule online or through tour operators before your visit. :clock1:
Entry fees can vary depending on whether you are visiting independently or as part of a guided tour. Guided tours typically have a set price, while independent access might be free or have a nominal fee if available. :moneywithwings:
While some visitors have managed independent visits, it's not always guaranteed. Booking a guided tour is often the most reliable way to ensure access and gain deeper insights into the site's history and significance. :magnifyingglasstilted_right:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors find that a guided tour enhances the experience, providing historical context and stories behind the 'anime pezzentelle.' Alternatively, a quiet, respectful solo visit allows for personal reflection. :person_walking:
Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the uneven terrain. Dress modestly and respectfully, as it is a place of remembrance and devotion for many. :sneakers: :dress_long:
The cemetery is a unique historical and cultural site, but its nature might be intense for very young children. Parents should consider their child's sensitivity to themes of death and remembrance. :child:
The 'anime pezzentelle' (poor souls) refer to the skulls and bones of the deceased whose remains are housed in the cemetery. Locals often leave offerings and prayers for them, seeking intercession. :skull:
Photography is generally permitted, but always be mindful of the solemn atmosphere. Avoid intrusive flash photography and be respectful of other visitors and any ongoing rituals. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities directly within the Cimitero delle Fontanelle itself. It is a historical site focused on remembrance. :forkandknife:
The surrounding Sanità district offers authentic Neapolitan trattorias and pizzerias. You can find local eateries serving traditional dishes just a short walk from the cemetery. :pizza: :restaurant:
Expect classic Neapolitan cuisine, including delicious pizzas, pasta dishes, seafood, and local pastries. It's a great area to experience genuine Neapolitan flavors. :pasta: :ice_cream:
Look for 'pizzerie al taglio' (pizza by the slice) or small, family-run trattorias for more affordable and authentic meals. Many local spots offer great value. :euro:
While not explicitly forbidden, it's best to refrain from eating or drinking inside the cemetery out of respect for the site. Enjoy your refreshments before or after your visit. :water_bottle:
📸 📸 Photography
The rows of skulls and bones, the chapel area, and any skulls adorned with offerings provide striking photographic opportunities. The natural light filtering into the caves can also create dramatic effects. :camera:
Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, always be mindful of the solemn nature of the site and avoid being intrusive. Respect other visitors' privacy and any religious practices. :iphone: :camerawithflash:
Focus on capturing the unique atmosphere – the textures of the bones, the play of light and shadow, and the details of any offerings. Close-ups can be very powerful. :art:
While generally permitted, avoid using flash photography directly at people or in a way that might disturb others. Some specific areas might have signage indicating no-photo zones, so always observe local rules. :noentrysign:
Late morning or early afternoon can be ideal, as sunlight may filter into the caves, creating interesting lighting. However, the moody atmosphere can also be captured at other times. :sunwithface:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Alternatively, the Sanità district itself offers more conventionally child-friendly activities. Exploring the lively streets, perhaps stopping for a delicious Neapolitan pizza, can be a more engaging experience for families. If you're looking for underground sites that might be more palatable for children, the Catacombs of San Gaudioso, also in the Sanità district, offer a different, though still historical, perspective.
🤔 Curious Travelers
To get the most out of your visit, consider joining a guided tour. Local guides can share fascinating anecdotes and historical context that bring the site to life. Combine your visit with an exploration of the surrounding Sanità district to understand the broader cultural landscape that shaped this extraordinary place.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of Fontanelle Cemetery
Beyond its historical function, the cemetery became a focal point for popular devotion, particularly for the 'anime pezzentelle' or 'poor souls.' Neapolitans began to adopt specific skulls, treating them as intermediaries for prayers and petitions to God. This practice evolved into a unique form of folk religion, where offerings of candles, flowers, and even personal items were left for the deceased, seeking their intercession for health, luck, or protection. This deep connection between the living and the dead is a defining characteristic of the site.
The cemetery's cultural significance was further highlighted in recent years, even inspiring a special edition football shirt for SSC Napoli, designed with motifs referencing the Fontanelle. This blend of history, popular devotion, and contemporary cultural references underscores the enduring impact of the Cimitero delle Fontanelle on the Neapolitan identity.
Navigating the Sanità District
Beyond the Fontanelle Cemetery, the Sanità district is home to other significant historical and religious sites. The Catacombs of San Gaudioso, another fascinating underground burial complex, are located nearby and are often visited in conjunction with the Fontanelle. The district also boasts beautiful churches and historic palaces, showcasing a rich architectural heritage.
To truly experience Sanità, it's recommended to wander its streets, perhaps with a local guide, to discover hidden courtyards, artisan workshops, and local markets. The area is known for its genuine atmosphere and the warmth of its residents, making it a rewarding place to explore for those seeking a deeper understanding of Naples.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit