Castle of Muro Lucano, Medieval fortress in Muro Lucano, Italy
The Castle of Muro Lucano sits atop a steep ridge with two contrasting towers: a southern tower built from stone slabs and a northern circular tower. This arrangement reflects how the medieval structure was designed to adapt to the dramatic mountain slope.
The Lombards built the original fortress in the 9th century to defend the northern borders of the Duchy of Salerno from potential invasions. This strategic position made it a key outpost in a contested region of southern Italy.
Queen Joanna I of Naples died here in 1382 following orders from Charles III, making this fortress a stage for a dramatic episode of medieval politics. This tragic event became deeply woven into local memory and identity.
Access to the fortress is via a narrow path from the old Pianello quarter that follows the natural mountain ridge. Proper footwear is important due to the steep and uneven terrain along the route.
The fortress underwent extensive restoration in the 1980s and 1990s following severe damage from the 1980 earthquake. These efforts rescued the structure while leaving visible traces of its complex past.
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