Castel del Monte

Castel del Monte is the most mysterious castle in the world. It was built by Frederick 2 of Swabian Hohenstaufen, Holy Roman Emperor. Construction was completed in 1250. Why a mysterious castle? Usually, when we hear about the castle in memory, associations of buildings appear in the form of a fortress surrounded by a wall, with powerful towers, a suspension bridge and a moat around the castle filled with water. There's none of that in this castle. This castle is a mystery. Castel del Monte has the shape of an octagon. He's the only one with that layout. The eight towers are also octagonal. How many rooms do you think there are on each floor? Right! Eight rooms on each floor. This number occurs very often in the elements of ornament and decoration of the castle. This number 8 is a mystery to scientists. There is still no consensus on this figure of 8 permeating the castle. According to some versions, Frederick wore a ring decorated with eight petals, and according to various interpretations, the number eight symbolizes power, wealth, success and luck.

“Crown of Puglia”, located 60 km from Bari, rises on a mountain and is visible from afar. This castle is called the Crown of Puglia because Frederick 2 wore an eight-pointed crown. Then its mysterious shape can be explained as a symbol of the power of the emperor.

The purpose of the castle is also a mystery. There are contradictions. Friedrich preferred the construction of defensive structures. Then, if this lock is intended for protection, then it does not have the necessary attributes to be such. Maybe it was meant for falconry? But then it was luxurious and richly decorated, which is not typical of castles designed for hunting. There is a very unusual version, as if the castle was built as an astronomical device. The fact is that on the days of the summer and winter solstice, the light evenly illuminates all the rooms of the first floor.

Since 1996, this castle is a monument of universal heritage and is included under the protection of UNESCO.

To learn interesting details about the life and personality of Frederick himself, the history of the construction of the castle and some details of the secrets that hide this castle, legends and much more you can make an excursion to this castle. I will try to do everything possible for your comfortable stay in my company, and if you have any wishes, I will gladly and easily adjust to your wishes and requests.