Naples Fontanelle Cemetery Entrance Ticket & Guided Tour

Explore the Fontanelle Cemetery,
an ossuary carved into a tuff quarry

The Fontanelle Cemetery is an ancient ossuary of about 3,000 m² carved out of a tuff quarry 74 metres above sea level. For about 40 minutes, an expert guide born and raised in the area accompanies you and explains the deep bond between the people of Naples and the afterlife, where faith and folklore are intertwined.

The tour is run by a local cooperative that works to enhance the historical heritage of the Rione Sanità. It is a local development project recognised as an exemplary model of social enterprise, so your visit goes beyond sightseeing and supports the project.

Walk through three large galleries

The route passes through three large galleries: the Navata dei Preti, the Navata degli Appestati and the Navata dei Pezzentelli. As you walk along the imposing tuff passages, your guide explains the historical and architectural context that makes this place so special.

Hear about the 'anime pezzentelle' cult and local legends

Learn how the cult of the 'anime pezzentelle' carried on by the people of Naples has evolved, and see up close the famous skulls 'adopted' and cared for by the people. Your guide also tells the most cherished local legends, from the appearances of the legendary 'Captain's Skull' to the miracle stories of Concetta's 'sweating cape'.

※ The guided commentary is in Italian.