Norman-Swabian Castle of Bari
Norman-Swabian Castle of Bari
Open to the public: Yes
Days: Every day except Tuesday
Hours: From 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Ticket:
Full ticket: € 6.00 – during exhibitions € 9.00
Reduced ticket: € 2.00 – during exhibitions € 3.50 (Adults over 65 and youths aged 18 to 25)
Free admission: Children and youths up to 17 years old.
Infopoint phone: +39 080.886.9304
Address: Bari; Federico II di Svevia Square. (open in Google Maps)
The Norman-Swabian Castle of Bari is an imposing fortress located in the heart of the city of Bari, in Apulia, Italy. Its history is rich and complex, reflecting the various phases of domination and control the region has undergone over the centuries.
The construction of the castle began in the year 1132, by the order of the Norman king Roger II of Sicily. The main objective was to strengthen Norman control over the city of Bari and the surrounding region.
However, construction works continued for decades, involving various rulers and evolving from an initially Norman project to a subsequently Swabian one.
In 1156, the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick Barbarossa, belonging to the Swabian dynasty, took control of the castle and further expanded it.
During the Swabian period, the castle underwent additional modifications and was transformed into a royal residence, reflecting the typical architectural style of the era.
Over the succeeding centuries, the castle changed hands and underwent various transformations. It was used both as a royal residence and a defensive fortress during conflicts and wars that affected the region.
During the Aragonese period in the 15th century, the castle lost part of its defensive role due to developments in military strategies and technologies.
Throughout the centuries, the castle suffered damages and underwent restoration, adapting to the needs of successive epochs. In the 19th century, the castle underwent significant restoration under the influence of King Ferdinand I of the Two Sicilies.
Today, the Norman-Swabian Castle of Bari is an important historical and tourist site, visited by thousands of people every year. The castle has undergone further restoration and conservation efforts over the years to preserve its historical authenticity and unique architecture.