Bernalda Castle, Medieval castle in Bernalda, Italy
Bernalda Castle is a fortified structure in southern Italy's Basilicata region, positioned on high ground overlooking the Basento valley. The building has a rectangular layout with corner towers and contained multiple wells throughout to supply water during extended sieges.
The structure was originally called Camarda before undergoing major reconstruction in 1466 under Bernardino de Bernardo's direction. This renovation gave the fortress and the town its current name.
The castle shaped daily life and defense strategies for generations and remains central to how locals understand their place. You can see how its layout influenced the town's growth around it over time.
The site sits on elevated terrain with good vantage points across the landscape. Access conditions can vary depending on the season and weather, so checking the current state before visiting is helpful.
The castle displays a blend of architectural influences reflecting its different phases of development over time. This layered building history allows visitors to trace how fortified structures evolved in southern Italy.
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