Castello della Valle, Medieval castle in Fiumefreddo Bruzio, Italy
Castello della Valle is a medieval castle in Fiumefreddo Bruzio perched on a hill with views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The structure features two circular towers and a large entrance gate with Renaissance architectural elements, while restored underground spaces now function as exhibition halls and meeting areas.
Roberto il Guiscardo built the original tower around 1050, which the Normans later expanded into a complete castle during the Kingdom of Sicily period. The building suffered severe damage during the Napoleonic Wars in 1807 before undergoing restoration.
Artist Salvatore Fiume painted thirteen frescoes inside the castle that show everyday life in a medieval village. These works in the Stanza dell'Eden room depict scenes of how people lived and worked centuries ago.
The castle is accessible to visitors without entrance fees, and you can explore the restored underground areas. Wear sturdy footwear when visiting, especially if you plan to descend the stairs into the underground sections.
In 2006, the municipality officially designated this castle as a Monument Against All Wars, a symbolic gesture honoring its destruction by Napoleonic forces. This declaration transformed the site into a regional symbol of peace and resistance to conflict.
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