Reggia di Caserta

The monumental complex at Caserta, created by the Bourbon king Charles III in the mid-18th century to rival Versailles and the Royal Palace in Madrid, is exceptional for the way in which it brings together a magnificent palace with its park and gardens. The Palace has over thousand rooms, grand staircases, and several richly adorned royal apartments. There are many paintings, statues, dresses and cabinet work. The floor has a beautiful maiolica. There are also many ceramics and weapon. The massive construction was designed by the architect Luigi Vanvitelli, and construction started in 1752. The vast surrounding park is a showpiece in itself, with fountains, ornamental waterworks, and statuary. In the garden there is the beautiful fountain of Diana and Actaeon. But even more important is the area dedicated to the splendid landscapes that Ferdinand IV ordered to J.P. Hackert, the other famous artist who worked in the Palace of Caserta.