Italy

Fontanelle

Fontanelle

The Fontanelle Cemetery, located in the city of Naples, Italy, is a unique and haunting place that holds a deep historical and cultural sig…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Exploring with transit or a car
  • Historical sightseeing travelers
  • Wine tasting travelers
  • Visiting in June to August
Recommended stay
3-5 days
Best time
June to August
Walkability
Spread
Guide depth
Solid guide
More about this guide

Fontanelle is a strong pick for historical sightseeing & wine tasting — plan about 3-5 days; group places into half-day loops. Peak season: June to August.

Solid guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 63/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Spread density — Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops. (≈11.7 km span)

3-5 Recommended days
June to August Best season
8 Nearby places

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When to go

High season: June to August

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: March · April · October

Weather

Autumn

10°C to 20°C

Spring

10°C to 20°C

Summer

20°C to 30°C

Winter

0°C to 10°C

How to get there

How to Reach Fontanelle in Italy

Fontanelle is a charming village located in the beautiful country of Italy. If you are planning a visit to this picturesque destination, here are some ways to reach Fontanelle:

By Air:

The nearest international airport to Fontanelle is Venice Marco Polo Airport. From the airport, you can either rent a car or take a taxi to reach Fontanelle. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours, and it offers scenic views of the Italian countryside.

By Train:

If you prefer traveling by train, you can take a train from Venice Santa Lucia railway station to Treviso Centrale railway station. From there, you can catch a local train or a bus to Fontanelle. The journey by train takes around 1 hour, and it is a convenient option for those who enjoy train rides.

By Car:

If you are already in Italy or prefer the flexibility of driving, you can reach Fontanelle by car. The village is well-connected by roads, and you can use a GPS or follow road signs to navigate your way. Fontanelle is located approximately 45 kilometers north of Venice, and the journey takes around 1 hour depending on traffic conditions.

By Bus:

There are also bus services available from various cities in Italy to Fontanelle. You can check the local bus schedules and book your tickets in advance. Buses offer a comfortable and affordable option for reaching the village.

Whichever mode of transportation you choose, once you arrive in Fontanelle, you will be greeted with its charming atmosphere, historic buildings, and stunning landscapes. Enjoy your visit to this hidden gem in Italy!

Getting to know Fontanelle

The Fontanelle Cemetery, located in the city of Naples, Italy, is a unique and haunting place that holds a deep historical and cultural significance. Situated in a cave-like hollow, the cemetery is home to thousands of skulls and skeletal remains, making it a macabre yet fascinating attraction for locals and tourists alike.

The origin of the Fontanelle Cemetery dates back to the 17th century when the city of Naples faced a major crisis – an outbreak of the plague. The death toll was staggering, and the existing burial grounds quickly became overwhelmed. As a result, the bodies were removed and stored in the Fontanelle cave as a temporary solution.

Over time, the cave became a permanent resting place for the forgotten and abandoned souls. The skulls and bones, often unclaimed or unidentified, were arranged and displayed in a unique, eerie fashion. The local community embraced these forgotten souls and started to adopt them as their own, giving them names and praying for their souls in what is now known as anima pezzentelle, or "souls from purgatory."

Walking through the Fontanelle Cemetery is an otherworldly experience. The cave is dimly lit, and thousands of skulls are neatly stacked against the walls or placed in wooden shelves, giving the impression of a macabre library. Visitors can leave offerings such as candles, notes, or small personal belongings, as a way to show respect and offer solace to the souls believed to be trapped in purgatory.

Today, the Fontanelle Cemetery stands as an important symbol of Neapolitan folklore and religious beliefs. It serves as a reminder of the city's troubled past and the resilience of its people. A visit to this unique place offers a rare opportunity to reflect on mortality, compassion, and the enduring power of tradition.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Visit Fontanelle's historic center for charming architecture
  • Try the local wines at vineyards in the surrounding countryside
  • Attend the annual cultural festival in July for a lively experience
  • Explore the nearby hiking trails and enjoy the picturesque landscapes

Hotels nearby

Stays around Fontanelle — sorted so you can pick quickly.

Hotel Villa Luppis

Well-reviewed by many guests

4.3 Tripadvisor (320)

Via San Martino 34 - 33087 Pasiano di Pordenone (Friuli-Venezia Giulia)

9.3 km 0434 626969

More details Website

Hotel al Gallo

Well-reviewed by many guests

4.2 Booking.com (317)

Via Caio Voltejo Capitone 16 - 31046 Oderzo (Veneto)

6.8 km 0422 710142

More details Website

Listings update over time — confirm availability before you book.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Fontanelle?

Most travelers spend about 3-5 days in Fontanelle, Italy.

When is the best time to visit Fontanelle?

High season is typically June to August.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Fontanelle?

Travelers often find better value in March, April, October.

What kind of trip is Fontanelle good for?

Fontanelle suits Historical sightseeing, Wine tasting, Cultural events, Outdoor activities.

Is Fontanelle walkable?

Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops.

Any local tips for Fontanelle?

Visit Fontanelle's historic center for charming architecture

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Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Fontanelle → Lutrano → Portobuffole · ≈8 km
  • Fontanelle → Lutrano → Oderzo · ≈5 km
  • Fontanelle → Lutrano → Mansue · ≈6 km

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