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Caserta
is known as the "Versailles of Naples" after the Royal Palace built
here by the Bourbon King, Charles III, in the 18th century. The
enchanting palace overlooking the huge square is one of the most
sumptuous buildings of its kind in Italy. It has over 1,200 rooms
and is full of paintings and rich decorations. The magnificent
gardens are 3 km long and their crowning glory is a 75 metre high
waterfall, which can be clearly seen from the palace. After the
splendour of the Royal Palace, we make our way to Monte Cassino 3 km
away (free time for lunch) and 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. |