Royal Palace of Naples. Construction on the present building was begun in the 17th century. Intended to house King Philip III of Spain on a visit never fulfilled to this part of his kingdom, instead it initially housed the Viceroy Fernando Ruiz de Castro, count of Lemos.
In 1734, with the arrival of Charles III of Spain to Naples, the palace became the royal residence of the Bourbons. By the 18th century, the royal residence was moved inalnd to be more defensible from naval assault, as well as more distant from the often-rebellious populace of Naples.
During the Napoleonic occupation the palace was enriched by Napoleon’s sister, with Neoclassic decorations and furnishings. The building suffered from bombing during World War II and the subsequent military occupation of the building caused serious damage. Today, the palace and adjacent grounds house theatres, a library and offices.