Castello Pignatelli della Leonessa, Norman castle in San Martino Valle Caudina, Italy.
Castello Pignatelli della Leonessa is a Norman fortress in San Martino Valle Caudina featuring defensive walls, towers, and a central courtyard surrounding the residential palace complex. The structure sits at approximately 370 meters elevation and blends defensive architecture with the living quarters of an aristocratic family.
The fortress was built during the Norman period and came under the ownership of the Lagonesse family in 1343, who later adopted the name della Leonessa. This name change marked the beginning of their long-lasting authority in the region across several centuries.
The main hall shows wooden floors and ornate ceiling paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries depicting scenes from the della Leonessa family. These spaces reveal how the noble family lived and held power over the surrounding territory.
Access to the fortress is through a stone-paved path from Piazza del Gaudio leading to a monumental entrance gate and a parade ground. Wearing comfortable shoes is advisable since the site sits on a hill and the approach involves climbing to reach the main entrance.
Inside the structure stands a consecrated chapel built in 1706, along with prison cells and an ingenious rainwater collection system built into the medieval walls. These practical features show how castles operated as self-contained settlements with all necessary facilities.
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