Norman-Swabian Castle of Bari

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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.

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Most Beautiful Castles in Puglia

Castles Br

Castles of Brindisi Province


Brindisi, a city located in the Italian region of Puglia, boasts a rich and fascinating history that is also reflected in its castles. Here is a brief historical overview of some of the most beautiful castles in Brindisi:


(1) Alfonsino Castle: Built in the 15th century by order of King Alfonso of Aragon, Alfonsino Castle is an imposing fortress located on the coast, designed to defend the city from enemy incursions coming from the sea. With its impressive architecture and strategic location, the castle has become a symbol of power and royal control.


(2) Swabian Castle: This castle dates back to the 13th century and was built by the Swabians, a German dynasty that ruled over southern Italy. Swabian Castle played a crucial role in the city’s defense and has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries. Today, it is an important historical and cultural landmark of Brindisi.


(3) Castle by the Sea: Located along the coast, Castle by the Sea was built during the 16th century to defend the port of Brindisi from maritime threats. This castle features a pentagonal structure and throughout its history has been used for various purposes, including military defense and as a prison. Today, it hosts cultural events and exhibitions.


(4) Mesagne Castle: Although not directly situated in Brindisi, Mesagne Castle, a short distance away, deserves a mention. Dating back to the 11th century, it is an exceptional example of Norman medieval architecture and serves as a testament to the historical past of the region.


(5) Dentice di Frasso Castle: This castle, dating back to the 16th century, was built by the Dentice di Frasso family, a local noble family. It is located in the town of Carovigno, near Brindisi, and features a combination of architectural styles including Gothic and Renaissance.

Each castle in Brindisi carries a unique story and offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the fascinating past of the city and the surrounding region.

Today, these castles are not only witnesses of their era but also important cultural and tourist attractions that draw visitors from around the world.