TThe veiled Christ of Cappella Sansevero is one of the most fascinating and mysterious works that can be seen in Naples and in Italy. Even if you are in Naples for a few hours, the Chapel is among the 10 must-see attractions of the city. They say that the veil of marble on the body of Christ is actually a veil in fabric, transformed into rock thanks to a special liquid invented by the sinister Prince of Sansevero, an illustrious alchemist. Many, however, argue that the surprising effect of the veil is only due to the great talent of Giuseppe Sanmartino, the author of this masterpiece. The discovery of a secret room and of some macabre works, visible in Cappella Sansevero, have contributed to giving the Prince and the veiled Christ an aura of mystery. The Chapel deserves a visit not only for the Christ but also for the other works one can admire in this little jewel hidden among Naples’s alleys. Indeed, it is a place full of esoteric and religious symbols, and we can help you discover them by presenting to you the 10 things not to miss during your visit at Cappella Sansevero.

Located at the center of the Chapel, the Veiled Christ by Giuseppe Sanmartino immediately captures the gaze of the visitors, who often wonder about the mystery of this work. The peculiarity is the veil that covers the body of Christ, dead and lying on cushions. It is extraordinary to see how this veil of marble actually seems to be made of fabric, thanks to its soft and winding lines. On the face and on the body of Jesus it is possible to see all the signs of the tortures that he had to bear: the deep wound in his chest, the holes in his hands and feet. A work so beautiful and fascinating that even the great master Antonio Canova declared that he would have given up ten years of his life and career to be able to claim that he was the author of such a masterpiece. The veil has been a very prominent subject of debate and is the source of an interesting legend. Indeed, it appears all too soft and delicate and it looks too real for being made of marble. For this reason, legend has it that the softness of the veil is not due to the sculptural ability of Giuseppe Sanmartino, but to the esoteric powers of the Prince of Sansevero, who seemed to be able to solidify, with a liquid of his own invention, fabrics and even body organs.

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