Naples: Discover a Real Hidden Gem in the Royal Wood of Capodimonte

In the heart of the Real Bosco di Capodimonte, a historic park that extends over 134 hectares above the city of Naples, lies a gem little known even to Neapolitans themselves: La Tisaneria. This charming bistro café has found a home in a structure dating back to the 19th century, once a greenhouse for the shelter of plants during the cold months. Known in historical documents as the "Stufa dei Fiori", this greenhouse has been expertly restored, maintaining its original features, such as the large glass doors and the sloping iron and glass roof. The environment is embellished with the color "Vitriolo di Cipro", an intense blue used for its fungicidal properties essential in humid environments.

The Royal Wood of Capodimonte is not only a place to relax, but also a heritage of biodiversity. With over 134 hectares and 400 plant species, the park offers an escape into nature without leaving the urban fabric of Naples. Among centuries-old magnolias and paths that wind through fountains and statues, the Wood is a place of botanical studies and research, which are also reflected in the menu of the Tisaneria. The Royal Palace and its park were built starting in 1738 in the Capodimonte area at the behest of Charles of Bourbon. The site was born as a hunting reserve, as well as the site for the collection of the Farnese collection, to be used as a royal residence for the Bourbons themselves, then for the French sovereigns and finally, after the unification of Italy, for the Savoys themselves. The Royal Palace, which over the centuries has become an essential stop for intellectuals engaged in the Grand Tour, together with the lush Royal Wood inside it hosts a total of 17 historic buildings including residences, cottages and laboratories.

A few steps from the Tisaneria, the central building houses the National Museum of Capodimonte. The Museum offers an immersion in art and culture. Originally conceived as a hunting lodge for Charles of Bourbon in the 18th century, the palace today houses one of the most important art collections in Italy, with works ranging from Raphael to Caravaggio. A guided tour, bookable through METOUR.IT at the link https://www.metour.it/it/prenota-e-parti/esperienze-e-visite/visite-ai-musei/museo-reggia-e-real-bosco-di-capodimonte-tour-con-guida-/in-napoli-italia will enrich your appreciation of the artistic heritage, making a perfect complement to the tranquility of the Tisaneria.

In conclusion, the perfect itinerary could be a visit to the National Museum of Capodimonte followed by a walk in the park of the Real Bosco di Capodimonte, to end a day of relaxation and culture with a beautiful stop at the Tisaneria, sitting in the shade of a magnolia, sipping a herbal tea, a cappuccino or tasting a dessert and reflecting on the natural and artistic beauties just explored. The Tisaneria is not just a place to eat and drink, but a corner of peace that renews body and spirit, allowing you to experience Naples in a totally unique and personal way.

Info: La Stufa dei Fiori — this is the name of the new herbal tea shop and bistro in the greenhouse — is open daily from morning to late afternoon. You can also stop by La Stufa dei Fiori just to make some “green” and zero-mile purchases. The Social Market is always open, well stocked with artisanal biscuits, apple rusks, jams and marmalades coming — when not directly from the Woods — from social cooperatives that practice sustainable agriculture.
You can access both from Porta Grande and Porta Piccola. Open from 8am to 7:30pm, closed on Wednesdays. Dogs are welcome.