.... Impressive view of an octagonal fortress with eight matching octagonal towers... .built on a hill, you can see the castle from afar, towering above the endless number of olive trees... the inside of the castle is slightly disappointing, since it's completely empty, but the sight of it from far away as you approach it is spectacular... one of the most important monuments of the Middle Ages in Italy, located in the heart of Puglia... a treasure of beauty and mystery to explore... “Castle of the Mountain” is a unique piece of medieval architecture... a blend of classic, Gothic, and Islamic influences... it looks like a crown, and in a sense that's probably what it is: a symbol of Emperor Frederick's status and power... Big Thanks Gian Luca and Rafaella for 3 more wonderful UNESCO sites!💜
©Ph. Michele Schirone
Castel Del Monte was built by Emperor Frederick II von Hohenstaufen. He was a man of many talents: an absolute monarch but also a great lover of culture. He spoke several languages and was interested in mathematics, astronomy and natural sciences. His stay in the Middle East (for the Crusades) heavily influenced his thinking.
The castle dates from 1240. After Frederick's death, it slowly fell into great disrepair. The mosaics and statues that have decorated the interior, were looted.
Whether or not the structure was erected as a defensive fortress is still up for debate. There is no moat or drawbridge to fend off potential invader however, it’s speculated that there was once a defensive wall with bastions surrounding the castle.
It was declared a UNESCO WHS site in 1996.
Stamp:
Matera - European Capital of Culture
(04-03-2019)
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