Aragonese Castle, Military Renaissance castle in Ortona, Italy.
The Aragonese Castle sits on a rocky headland featuring three cylindrical towers and thick stone walls that rise above the Adriatic Sea. Its layout combines medieval fortress design with later palace structures added over centuries.
Construction started in 1452 under King Alfonso V of Aragon, built over the remains of a 14th-century fortress that had previously occupied the site. The structure later suffered major damage from bombardment during World War II combat.
The castle served as both a military stronghold and a residence for noble families starting in the 17th century, with palaces built inside its walls. People could live and govern from this elevated position while overlooking the entire coast.
The castle is open to visitors who can climb the towers and enjoy coastal views. A museum inside displays historical photographs and exhibits about the families and periods that shaped the site.
During the 1943 Battle of Ortona, bombardment triggered an explosion of stored gunpowder inside the castle, destroying sections of the walls. Scars from this blast remain visible in the stonework today.
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