Caserta is known as the “Versailles of Naples” because of the Royal Palace built here by Charles II, the Bourbon King, in the 18th Century. The enchating palace overlooking the huge square is one of the must sumptuos buildings of its kind in Italy. It has over 1.200 rooms and is rich in chandeliers, richly gilded frescoes, tapestries and history. In 1945 it was the headquarters of the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces in the Mediterranean. The extraordinary gardens with their crowing glory and the great cascade, a waterfall 75 metres high can be seen clearly from the palace 3 Km away. After the splendour of the Royal Palace, you’ll make your way to Monte Cassino to the famous Abbey, which was founded in 529 by St. Benedict of Norcia. During the Second World War the Abbey was completely destroyed and has since been faithfully restored to its former glory, even with the original frescoes and mosaics pieced together again. These two remarkable sites combine for a truly memorable day out.
