Castello di Afragola, Medieval castle in Afragola, Italy

Castello di Afragola is a medieval castle in Afragola, probably built in 1420 by the Capece-Bozzuto family or in 1337 by the Anjou-Durazzo. It originally had four towers and a moat; today only one of the two original levels remains, covered with red clinker bricks, and the entrance arch has become a pizzeria.

The castle was first mentioned by the chronicler Perger in 1495, when the French took it during their invasion of the Kingdom of Naples. It was owned by Tommaso Mansella in 1337 and later by Roberto di Capua, count of Altavilla. After 1407 it stood abandoned until 1444, when Nicola Maria Capece-Bozzuto obtained permission from Alfonso V of Aragon to restore and fortify it. In 1576 it was sold to the universitas of Afragola.

The castle reflects building traditions of the Naples region and displays defensive features typical of medieval fortifications. Visitors can still see the sturdy walls and construction methods from that era.

The site now functions as an educational center for children, with spaces adapted for modern teaching purposes. Visitors should be aware that access may vary depending on ongoing activities, and advance notice may be advisable.

The clock tower that once stood at the entrance was struck by lightning in 1887 and demolished by the end of the 19th century; only a cross of yellow bricks remains on its facade. The entrance arch now houses a pizzeria, and the right-hand arch was rebuilt in 1920 during work on Corso Enrico De Nicola.