The Napolitaner N.06 - L'Ospedale delle prostitute

This is the story of a historic building in the Forcella district, with a dilapidated appearance and a fascinating past. In the heart of one of Naples' oldest neighborhoods—historically also a red-light area—this palace has stood for over six centuries. It was built for a noble and forward-thinking mission: the care and shelter of women, prostitutes as the name suggests, living on the streets, with the aim of helping them change their lives. The palace was dedicated to Santa Maria Egiziaca, from whom the street it stands on also takes its name. In Gaia Inserviente's illustration, the rebirth of the women who once inhabited the hospital—and even earlier, the alleys of the Duchesca area—is depicted. The illustration shows a palace façade in ochre yellow tones, with windows and doors painted in deep dark blue. Large flowers with white petals shaded in pink, and vibrant green leaves, climb the structure. Female faces are painted inside the flowers, with fair complexions and red lips. In the lower left corner, a small red symbol of medical care and assistance is barely visible.