Castles of Italy
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Latest page update: 23 January 2025
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By Dion Protani
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Chosen from hundreds of candidates, the best castles of Italy below highlight some of the country's most fascinating fortresses.
All shapes, sizes and historical periods have been considered with the selection below representing those most worthy of a visit. Some of the castles are positioned in a commanding hilltop position overlooking a city or town, while others stand impregnable a little way out to sea or on the cliff-edge of a hard to reach mountain. The twenty most interesting castles in Italy have been whittled down and now presented in order of overall appeal. |
Gallipoli Castle, Puglia
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Castello Aragonese (Ischia)
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The Castello Aragonese is a striking medieval castle perched on a rocky islet connected to the island of Ischia by a stone causeway.
Originally built in 474 BCE by the Greeks, it was later fortified by the Romans and transformed into its current structure in 1441 by Alfonso of Aragon. The castle served as a defensive stronghold, a royal residence, and a refuge during pirate invasions. Key features include ancient ramparts, churches, lush gardens, and breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Visitors can explore its tunnels, terraces, and historic chapels, which reflect centuries of cultural evolution. |
Castello Aragonese, Ischia
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Castel del Monte
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Castel del Monte, an architectural masterpiece in the Puglia region of southern Italy, is located on a hill near Andria. This 13th-century castle, built by Emperor Frederick II, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its unique octagonal design.
Constructed from limestone, marble, and quartz, the castle features eight towers at each corner and reflects a blend of Gothic, Islamic, and classical influences. Its precise geometry and symbolic layout remain a subject of fascination. Originally thought to serve as a hunting lodge or a place of study, its true purpose is still debated. Surrounded by scenic countryside, Castel del Monte is a cultural and historical icon of medieval Italy. |
Castel del Monte, Puglia
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Castel Sant'Angelo
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Castel Sant’Angelo, located on the banks of the Tiber River near Vatican City in Rome, is a historic fortress with a rich and varied history. Originally built in the 2nd century CE as Emperor Hadrian’s mausoleum, it later served as a military fortress, a papal residence, and a prison. The cylindrical structure is crowned by a statue of the Archangel Michael, symbolizing its role as a protector of Rome.
Inside, visitors can explore its spiral ramp, frescoed rooms, and the Papal Apartments. The Passetto di Borgo, a hidden passage connecting the castle to the Vatican, highlights its strategic significance. Today, Castel Sant’Angelo is a museum showcasing Rome’s layered history and architectural brilliance. |
Castel Sant'Angelo, Rome
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Castel dell'Ovo
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Castel dell’Ovo, or the "Egg Castle," is an iconic fortress located on the seafront of Naples, Italy, on the small island of Megaride. As the city's oldest castle, its history dates back to the 6th century BCE when it served as a Greek settlement.
The current structure was built during the Norman period and expanded by subsequent rulers, becoming a key defensive stronghold. The castle is steeped in legend, with its name linked to a myth about a magical egg placed in its foundation by the poet Virgil. Today, visitors can explore its stone halls, terraces with panoramic views of the Bay of Naples, and its picturesque marina, Borgo Marinari. |
Castel dell'Ovo, Naples
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Buonconsiglio Castle
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Buonconsiglio Castle is a magnificent historic fortress located in the city of Trento, northern Italy. Built over several centuries, the castle complex is a blend of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.
The main structure, known as the Castelvecchio, dates back to the 12th century and served as the residence of the prince-bishops of Trento. Notable features include the impressive frescoes in the Ciclopi Hall, the Magno Palazzo with its elegant courtyards, and the Torre Aquila with its famous Eagle Fresco, depicting the life of Emperor Maximilian I. Today, the castle houses a museum showcasing art, history, and the region’s cultural heritage. |
Buonconsiglio Castle, Trento
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Castello Estense
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The Castello Estense is a magnificent fortress located in the heart of Ferrara. Built in the 14th century by the Este family, it served as their residence and symbol of power in the region.
The castle is characterized by its imposing brick walls, four corner towers, and a large moat, creating a and defensive structure. Inside, visitors can explore its grand halls, frescoed rooms, and historical exhibits. The castle also houses a museum dedicated to the history of Ferrara and the Este dynasty. Over the centuries, the Castello Estense has been a center of politics, culture, and military strategy, making it a key historical landmark in Ferrara. |
Castello Estense, Ferrara
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Sforza Castle (Milan)
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Sforza Castle (Castello Sforzesco) is a historic fortress located in the center of Milan, near Parco Sempione. Originally built in the 15th century by Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, the castle served as a noble residence and military stronghold.
The castle features a large central courtyard, fortified walls, and a distinctive, round central tower known as the Torre del Filarete. Over the centuries, it has undergone various renovations and expansions. Today, it houses several museums and art collections, including works by Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. The castle is a symbol of Milan’s rich history and artistic heritage. |
Sforza Castle, Milan
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Castel Beseno
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Castel Beseno is a medieval fortress located in the Trentino region of northern Italy, near the town of Besenello. Positioned atop a hill, it offers stunning views of the Adige Valley and the Alps.
The castle dates back to the 12th century and was expanded over the centuries, with its strategic location serving as a military stronghold. The structure features impressive walls, towers, and a large courtyard, showcasing both Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. Historically, Castel Beseno was an important site during the conflicts between local noble families and the Habsburgs. |
Castel Beseno, Trentino Alto-Adige
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Rocca Calascio
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Rocca Calascio is a striking medieval fortress located in the Abruzzo region of central Italy, high in the Gran Sasso mountains.
Situated at an altitude of 1,460 metres, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and valleys. The fortress, believed to have been built in the 10th century, was later expanded and strengthened during the 14th century. Its main features include a cylindrical watchtower, fortified walls, and a central courtyard. Rocca Calascio has a fascinating history, serving as a military stronghold throughout the centuries. |
Rocca Calascio, Abruzzo
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Castel Sant'Elmo
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Castel Sant'Elmo is a historic fortress located on a hilltop in Naples, Italy, offering panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Naples. Built in the 14th century, it was originally designed by the Angevins and later expanded by the Spanish.
The castle's distinctive star-shaped layout and thick walls were designed for defense, and it served various purposes over the centuries, including as a military stronghold and a royal residence. Today, Castel Sant'Elmo is a museum and a cultural centre, showcasing art exhibitions and historical displays. Its strategic location and history make it one of Naples' most iconic landmarks. |
Castel Sant'Elmo, Naples
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Castello Svevo Angioino (Manfredonia)
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Castel Svevo Angioino is located in Manfredonia, a town in the Apulia region of southeastern Italy, near the Adriatic coast. Built in the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II, the castle was later expanded and modified by the Angevins in the 14th century.
The structure features a combination of Romanesque, Gothic, and medieval architectural styles, with robust defensive walls, large towers, and a central courtyard. Historically, the castle served as a royal residence and military stronghold. Today, it stands as a significant historical landmark, hosting exhibitions and cultural events. Its strategic location and architectural beauty make it a symbol of Manfredonia’s rich heritage. |
Castello Svevo-Angioino, Manfredonia, Puglia
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Castel Stenico
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Castel Stenico is a historic castle located in the Trentino region of northern Italy, overlooking the Sarca River valley. Situated in the village of Stenico, it is part of the larger Adamello-Brenta Nature Park, surrounded by lush forests and stunning alpine landscapes.
The castle’s medieval architecture features sturdy stone walls, towers, and a central courtyard, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Its history dates back to the 12th century, originally serving as a defensive stronghold for local nobility. Over the centuries, it has been expanded and renovated. |
Castel Stenico, Trentino Alto-Adige
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Castello Manfredonico (Sicily)
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Castello Manfredonico is a medieval castle located in Mussomeli, a town in the central part of Sicily. Perched on a rocky hill, the castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Built in the 14th century by Manfredi Chiaramonte, the castle features a combination of military and residential architecture, with impressive defensive walls, towers, and a central courtyard.
Its most distinctive element is the unique arched entrance, which is adorned with decorative stonework. Over the centuries, the castle has been expanded and modified, reflecting the changing political and architectural styles of the region. Today, it stands as a significant historical and cultural landmark in Sicily. |
Castello Manfredonico, Sicily
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Rocca Albornoziana
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The Rocca Albornoziana is a historic fortress located in Spoleto, Umbria, perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of the surrounding valley. Built in the 14th century by Cardinal Albornoz, the fortress was designed as a symbol of papal power and a defensive stronghold.
Its impressive structure features massive stone walls, towers, and a central courtyard, with a blend of medieval and Renaissance architectural elements. The fortress has served various roles over the centuries, including as a military outpost and prison. Today, the Rocca Albornoziana houses the National Museum of the Duchy of Spoleto, showcasing art and artifacts from the region’s history. |
Rocca Albornoziana, Spoleto, Umbria
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Gradara Castle
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Gradara Castle is a medieval fortress located in the Marche region of Italy, near the Adriatic coast, in the town of Gradara. Known for its well-preserved architecture, the castle features imposing stone walls, crenellated towers, and a moat, offering a glimpse into medieval defensive structures.
The castle is historically significant as the setting of the tragic love story of Paolo and Francesca, immortalized in Dante's "Divine Comedy." Built in the 12th century and later expanded, the castle has served as a noble residence and military stronghold. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, showcasing art exhibitions, historical displays, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside. |
Gradara Castle, Marche
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Castel Nuovo (Naples)
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Castel Nuovo, also known as Maschio Angioino, is a historic castle located in the heart of Naples, near the city's waterfront. Built in the late 13th century by Charles I of Anjou, the castle served as a royal residence and fortress. Its distinctive features include a large central courtyard, massive stone walls, and a series of imposing towers, with the most famous being the "Torre dell'Orologio."
The castle has undergone various modifications over the centuries, reflecting different architectural styles. Today, Castel Nuovo houses a museum and art galleries, offering visitors a chance to explore its rich history, royal heritage, and stunning views of Naples. |
Castel Nuovo, Naples
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Castello di San Giorgio (Mantova)
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Castello di San Giorgio is a historic fortress located in Mantova, near the city’s main square. Built in the late 14th century by the Gonzaga family, it served as a defensive structure and a residence for the ruling family. The castle features a mix of medieval and Renaissance architecture, with towering walls, a moat, and a central courtyard.
One of its main attractions is the Camera degli Sposi (Room of the Newlyweds), famous for its stunning frescoes by Andrea Mantegna, depicting the Gonzaga family. Over the centuries, the castle has served various purposes, and today it is a museum, showcasing the region's rich history and art. |
Castello di San Giorgio, Mantova
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Piccolomini Castle
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Piccolomini Castle is located in the town of Celano, in the Abruzzo region of central Italy. Built in the 14th century by the Piccolomini family, the castle was designed as a fortress to protect the region from invaders. Its architecture blends Gothic and Renaissance elements, with imposing walls, defensive towers, and a central courtyard.
The castle's most notable feature is its well-preserved keep, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding valley. Over the centuries, the castle served as both a military stronghold and a noble residence. Today, it houses the Museum of Sacred Art, showcasing religious artefacts. |
Piccolomini Castle, Celano, Abruzzo
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Donnafugata Castle
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Donnafugata Castle is located in the countryside near Ragusa, Sicily. Built in the 19th century, the castle blends neo-Gothic and Baroque architectural styles and is surrounded by expansive gardens. It was constructed by the noble Ragusa family and later became the residence of the barons of Donnafugata.
The castle features a striking façade, ornate interiors with frescoes and antique furnishings, and a labyrinthine garden with fountains and sculptures. Historically, Donnafugata Castle was a symbol of the region’s aristocratic power. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, offering insight into Sicilian nobility and showcasing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. |
Donnafugata Castle, Sicily
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Gallipoli Castle
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Gallipoli Castle is located in the historic town of Gallipoli, along the Ionian Sea in Puglia. This imposing fortress dates back to the 13th century, though it was expanded and reinforced over the centuries, particularly by the Aragonese in the 15th century.
The castle is surrounded by seawalls and features robust defensive structures, including towers, ramparts, and a drawbridge. Inside, visitors can explore courtyards, vaulted rooms, and ancient halls. Historically, the castle served as a military stronghold protecting the town from invaders. Today, Gallipoli Castle is a popular tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the region's medieval past. |
Gallipoli Castle, Puglia
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