Patti Castle, Medieval castle in Patti, Italy.

Patti Castle is a medieval fortress in a town on Sicily that sits on elevated terrain overlooking the sea. The structure features thick defensive walls and several watchtowers that once protected this coastal region from attack.

A Norman keep, the Castello di Adelasia, was built in 1062 on a hill already occupied since Neolithic and Greek times. In 1282 Peter III of Aragon fortified Patti with a wall of five gates and seventeen towers. Earthquakes, including those of 1693 and 1908, later reshaped the citadel.

The name Castello di Adelasia recalls Queen Adelasia del Vasto, wife of Count Roger I, who stayed here in the early 12th century and died in Patti on 26 April 1117; her Renaissance tomb is in the chapel of Santa Febronia in the cathedral. The Arab geographer Idrisi called the town "Baqtus" around 1150, describing it as a strong fortress with a wide territory.

The best route to reach the castle starts from the town center, and the climb is moderate but rewarding. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water with you, especially on warmer days.

Many visitors overlook that portions of the walls come from different periods and show distinct building methods. The older sections are often cut and fitted differently than the later repairs and reinforcements.