Since the Hypogeum of the Crystallines was opened on June 24, 2022, a marvelous journey has begun: much research and in-depth study of this Hellenistic burial complex dating back to the 4th century B.C., discovered by Baron Giovanni di Donato in 1889, under the Palazzo di Donato and then, again, academic studies, university theses and educational programs , until the presentation in November 2024, at the prestigious Getty Museum in Los Angeles during the 12th International Round Table on Polychromy in Ancient Sculpture and Architecture.
Since that time, the Hypogeum of the Crystallines has become an essential stop for so many American tourists passing through Naples who can’t wait to visit this jewel of ancient art…as John, an architect from Chicago, passing through the city, tells us, “I booked on line, Ie wonderful guides, they described the site with incredible love and passion…,when I looked into the eyes of the Gorgon it was so alive I felt petrified. I will go back there, a real trip back in time.” Said one lady, smiling.
The Hypogeum of the Cristallini is unique in the international archaeological scene, thanks to its exceptional state of preservation and the refinement of its wall decorations, which include amazing trompe-l’œil effects and pictorial details, in an iconic neighborhood of the city of Naples. As Alessandra Martuscielli, Director of the Ipogeo dei Cristallini, told us, “today the neighborhood is at the center of a process of cultural and social rebirth fueled by the passionate work of local realities, including the fundamental contribution of Father Antonio Loffredo, who has initiated a profound redevelopment work, and it is in this context that we have also inserted ourselves, training and employing young people from the neighborhood as cultural guides and museum staff. These young people are not just workers: they are the true ambassadors of the Crystal Hypogeum, custodians of an identity that is expressed through storytelling, welcoming, pride and rebirth.
Out of this experience, the Hypogeum of the Crystals Foundation was born – an organization that aims to protect, promote and enhance the archaeological site, while fostering educational, social and cultural initiatives that actively involve the community. The nonprofit foundation, works with a vision of sustainable and participatory development, convinced that cultural heritage is a powerful tool for social transformation. The Hypogeum of the Crystallines has had a gradual opening process that has required years of studies, technical investigations and environmental analysis, all to ensure the optimal preservation of the frescoes and internal microclimate and to protect the site, which has strict access rules. Today only 50 visitors are allowed per day, in groups of up to 10 people per hour, to ensure the sustainability and integrity of the archaeological site.
In conclusion, The Crystal Hypogeum represents a small but significant example of how cultural heritage can contribute to sustainable development, urban regeneration and social inclusion. It is a place where the ancient world meets the present, where memory opens the door to the future. Our hope is to continue on this path, continuing to make the site not only a place of beauty and history, but also of opportunity and learning.
The article The Hypogeum of the Cristallini and the rebirth of the Rione Sanità in Naples comes from TheNewyorkese.
“La nostra speranza è di continuare su questa strada, continuando a rendere il sito non solo un luogo di bellezza e storia, ma anche di opportunità e apprendimento”. Ha concluso.
L’articolo L’Ipogeo dei Cristallini e la rinascita del Rione Sanità a Napoli proviene da IlNewyorkese.
