Cosimo Fanzago

Cosimo Fanzago, born in 1593 in Clusone (Bergamo), was a prominent architect and sculptor, mainly active in Naples. Initially an apprentice sculptor, he soon became a master of architecture. Among his most notable works are the cloister of the Certosa di S. Martino, the churches of S. Francesco Saverio and della Sapienza, the chapel of the Royal Palace, and the majestic palace of Donn'Anna Carafa in Posillipo. Fanzago combined classical elements with a sober and original decoration, preferring the Greek cross and exploring perspective effects and intricate architectural details. His sometimes eccentric imagination is reflected in the sumptuous spire of S. Gennaro. He died in Naples in 1678.