An aerial view of the Castle and its eight octagonal towers, Andria, Bari
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Castel del Monte
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When:
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Daily
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Where:
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Castel del Monte
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| Costs: |
€3; concessions €1.50
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| Opening Hours: |
10am-1.30pm & 2.30pm-7.30pm
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One of the finest castles in Europe, the Castel del Monte in Bari is the landmark of Frederick II's reign in the region. A UNESCO heritage site since 1996, it presents a unique example of medieval military architecture, mixing Classical Antiquity, Muslim, Oriental and northern Europe's Gothic styles. In 1876 it was purchased by the Italian State in a very precarious condition, but lengthy restoration work has enabled its recovery.
The castle is located 18km east of Andria on a 540-metre hill and its eight 25-metre octagonal towers create a sense of harmony and imperialism.
The 16 trapezoidal rooms are characterised by refined sculptural adornments in which ancient and modern elements are blended along with influences from the Arab world.
The building was probably built as a hunting residence by Frederick II (keen on hunting with falcons) between 1229 and 1249. Today it is still surrounded in mystery. The number eight can be found many times in the structure, most famously in the eight octagonal towers, which prompts some to believe this "coincidence" has a magical aura...
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