Castello ducale, Medieval Hohenstaufen castle in Bisaccia, Italy
Castello ducale is a medieval fortress in Bisaccia featuring six four-sided towers positioned at the corners and midpoints of its trapezoidal layout. The entire structure is surrounded by robust brick walls that protected the fortification.
The fortress was built in 916 by Byzantine general Niccolò Piccingli to defend Apulia from Saracen invasions. In 1242, it underwent major expansions by the Hohenstaufen, significantly strengthening its defensive capabilities.
The castle displays a blend of Byzantine, Norman, and Hohenstaufen architectural elements reflecting how fortification methods evolved over centuries. Walking through it, you can see how different construction periods are visible in the walls and towers.
The castle sits in the historic center of Bisaccia and is reached through the former moat area, which was transformed into a street in 1836. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as the ground throughout the site can be uneven.
The fortress was integrated into the town's layout in 1836 when the former moat was converted into a passable street. This transformation allowed the castle to become part of everyday town life rather than remaining isolated.
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