Interesting fact: The province of Barletta-Andria-Trani is famous for the magnificent Castel del Monte, located near Andria. This imposing medieval castle, built by Emperor Frederick II in the 13th century, is renowned for its unique octagonal layout and geometric perfection. Castel del Monte is shrouded in mystery and legend, with numerous theories attempting to explain its chosen shape and function. The castle is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the world fascinated by its architectural beauty and enigmatic past.
Welcome to the section dedicated to one of the most fascinating and mysterious castles in Italy, Castel del Monte . Located in the beautiful region of Puglia, a few kilometers from the city of Andria, this castle is a true architectural masterpiece and a symbol of geometric perfection.
History
Built in the 13th century by order of Emperor Frederick II of Swabia, Castel del Monte is shrouded in mystery and legend. Its original purpose is still a matter of debate among scholars: some believe it was a hunting lodge, others a place of study and contemplation, while others see it as a temple of esoteric knowledge.
Architecture
Castel del Monte's most striking feature is its perfect octagonal shape. Each side of the octagon measures 16.5 meters, and each corner is crowned by an octagonal turret. This unique geometry reflects Frederick II's interest in mathematics, astronomy, and the esoteric arts. Inside, the castle features a central courtyard also octagonal in shape, which contributes to a sense of symmetry and harmony.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 1996, Castel del Monte was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. UNESCO recognized the castle as "a unique masterpiece of medieval military and civil architecture" and an exceptional example of the fusion of cultural elements from Northern Europe, the Islamic world, and classical antiquity.
Curiosity
- Esoteric Symbolism: The octagonal structure of the castle is often associated with esoteric and symbolic meanings. The octagon is seen as a transitional figure between the square (earth) and the circle (heaven), symbolizing the union between the earthly and the divine.
- Perfect Acoustics: The castle interior has been designed with amazing acoustics, allowing you to clearly hear sounds coming from different rooms.
- Building Materials: Castel del Monte was built using a variety of materials, including local white limestone, coral breccia, and marble, creating a mesmerizing visual effect in the sunlight.
Visit Castel del Monte
Castel del Monte is open to the public and offers visitors an unforgettable experience. During your visit, you can explore the castle's various rooms, climb the towers to admire the surrounding panorama, and discover the many legends surrounding this magical place.
Opening Hours
- Spring/Summer (April – September): 10:00 – 19:00
- Autumn/Winter (October – March): 9:00 – 17:00
- Closed: January 1st, December 25th
Tickets
- Entire: €10
- Reduced: €5 (for students, over 65s, groups of at least 15 people)
- Free: Children under 6, people with disabilities
How to get there
Castel del Monte is easily accessible by car from Andria and Bari. Ample parking is available for visitors. During the tourist season, a shuttle service is also available from Andria station.
Conclusion
Castel del Monte is much more than just a castle: it's a journey into the past, an encounter with medieval art and science, and a place where history and mystery blend together in a unique way. Don't miss the chance to visit this architectural gem and discover all its fascinating stories.
