Naples - Cathedral

On the right-hand side of Via del Duomo, stands the cathedral, dedicated to St Januarius (San Gennaro), patron saint of Naples. Originally built between 1294 and 1323 in French Gothic style, it was considerably restored and altered after an earthquake in 1456. In the center of the front, which dates from 1877 to 1905, is an older doorway (1407). In the south aisle is the sumptuously appointed chapel of St Januarius (1608-37), on the principal altar of which is a silver bust containing the skull of St Januarius, bishop of Beneventum, who was martyred in 305, in the time of Diocletian. In the tabernacle are two vessels containing the saint's blood, which is believed to have the power of liquefaction. The liquefaction, which, according to the legend, occurred for the first time when the saint's remains were transferred to Naples in the time of Constantine is said to take place twice a year on several successive days celebrated as special festivals (particularly on the first Saturday in May in the church of Santa Chiara and on September 19th in the cathedral). The saint's tomb can be seen in the richly decorated Confessio (1497-1506) under the high altar.