San Leucio, architecture
In the architect’s designs, the worker houses of San Leucio are aligned in two continuous and symmetrical blocks, open towards a central scenic element, the statue of the sovereign, and all the streets radiating from a large circular square are connected with other circular and concentric streets. From the overall plan of San Leucio you can also see the Cathedral, the Theater, and a Hospital for needy artists. Besides, of course, the Royal House.
San Leucio, the worker village
The first stone of the worker village of San Leucio was laid on September 18, 1798, but the revolution of 1799 prevented the realization of this grand and ambitious urban project, drastically reducing the original plan. However, symmetry was preserved. The worker housing blocks, on either side of the monumental entrance portal topped by two lions and the Bourbon coat of arms, overlook a large rectangular courtyard and face the Royal House of the Royal Belvedere, accessible by a large double and symmetrical staircase. The church, smaller than expected, was incorporated into the central building and has its forecourt elevated above the square.
In the Royal House, besides the King’s apartment, there were quarters for the parish priest and the schoolteacher, and rooms for the management and administration of the manufactory. The cellars were used for winemaking and as storage for oil, fruit, and all local products.
Not far from the worker village, in the Vaccheria district, agricultural activities were organized, while in the silk mills, upstream from the Belvedere House, silks and velvets destined for the furnishings of royal palaces and wealthy Neapolitan mansions were produced.
The Royal Colony was governed by special laws and regulations. Here, a legal-economic code, devised by Ferdinand, was in force, and for its great originality, it was translated into Latin, Greek, French, and German.
