Castello Sichinulfo, Medieval castle in Grottole, Italy
Castello Sichinulfo is a fortress set on a hilltop at 540 meters elevation, overlooking the Basento and Bradano valleys below. The structure features a square tower measuring 21 meters on each side and contains numerous rooms across multiple floors.
The fortress originates from the early medieval period when Lombard populations from Benevento began its construction. The earliest written account comes from 1154, when Arab geographer Al-Idrisi documented the location.
During the 1700s, a large hall inside was converted into a theater where traveling performance groups came to entertain. This cultural space brought theater to what was otherwise a remote hilltop fortress.
Visiting is easiest during clear weather, as the exposed hilltop location means wind and strong sun. Wear sturdy shoes since reaching the fortress involves walking on unpaved paths and uneven terrain.
A local legend remembers Abufina, who disappeared in the Basento river while waiting for news from her lover. According to the tale, she appears at the tower window during spring full moons.
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