Castello di Caprarica, Medieval castle in Tricase, Italy
Castello di Caprarica is a rectangular fortress in Tricase with round towers at each corner rising to roughly seven meters in height. The entrance benefits from triple machicolation defense, and inside are ground floor rooms, upper chambers, storage spaces, cellars, an interior garden, and water collection systems.
Construction of the fortress started in 1480 in response to the Turkish raid on nearby Otranto, addressing the threat of coastal attacks. Master builder Antonio Renne finished the fortification in 1524, creating a lasting defensive structure for the region.
Inside, a chapel honoring Saint John the Baptist once contained frescoes and carved stone corbels that visitors could see until the early 1900s. This sacred space shows how faith shaped daily life for those who lived within the walls.
Visitors should expect uneven ground and stone passages since the old fortress keeps its original structure. Sturdy shoes are advisable, and it helps to allow time for exploring the different levels and chambers.
The walls are made of irregular brown limestone blocks roughly 1.4 meters thick, giving them remarkable durability and strength. A decorative string course runs around the perimeter, a subtle detail that reflects the care Renaissance builders invested in their work.
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