Le Castella Castle

The Aragonese Castle of Le Castella origins date back to 204 BC., when the military leader Hannibal sought refuge there during his retreat. The fortress never housed local nobility but served as a shelter for soldiers defending against invasions from the sea. It rests on foundations from the Magna Graecia period, and even today, you can observe the various architectural phases layered over time, with Normans, Swabians, Byzantines, Angevins, and Aragonese each adding to the sturdy defensive walls originally built by the Greeks.

The castle’s uniqueness comes from its location: perched on an islet connected to the coast by a narrow strip of land. Originally, Le Castella was not the only castle in the area, and the plural name hints at the presence of multiple fortifications.

Despite the damage caused by weather and fierce storms, the Aragonese Fortress retains an ancient village structure: a majestic cylindrical tower divided into three floors connected by a stone spiral staircase, and the manor around which imposing crenelated defensive walls rise. Almost completely restored, the castle features several rooms, including a video room, a photo room, and the 'Phrurion Room.' Inside, there are also remnants of a small chapel and a larger church.

Address

Via Rigon 9, Isola di Capo Rizzuto, Italy

Details

Founded: 16th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Italy