Castello Ducale, Medieval fortress in Ceglie Messapica, Italy.
Castello Ducale is a medieval fortress in Ceglie Messapica featuring thick limestone walls, multiple round towers, and a tall quadrangular tower reaching 34 meters in height. The structure was built entirely from local stone and displays different architectural styles from its construction periods.
The Norman tower was constructed between 1070 and 1100, forming the fortress's original core. Later expansions during Swabian and Angevin periods added three round towers that strengthened the overall fortification.
The castle now houses the Emilio Notte Art Gallery and Pietro Gatti Library, serving as a space where local art and literature are displayed. These institutions show how the medieval structure functions as a gathering place for creative expression and learning.
Approximately half of the fortress remains under restoration, while accessible sections can be explored through guided tours. It is helpful to check opening hours ahead of time to plan your visit accordingly.
During renovation work in 2023, an 18th-century fresco depicting Saint Eligius was discovered, revealing artistic elements that had been hidden for centuries. This unexpected find shows how many stories remain concealed within the fortress walls.
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