Castello di San Nicola de Thoro-Plano, Medieval castle in Maiori, Italy
Castello di San Nicola de Thoro-Plano is a stone fortress on a hilltop above the Amalfi Coast, reinforced with nine towers and sturdy walls. The entire complex also contains a small museum with finds from local history that were discovered at the site over time.
The settlement began in the middle of the 9th century when people sought refuge in this hilltop location. Over time it was reinforced and enlarged, gradually becoming the fortified structure visible today.
The church of Saint Nicholas sits at the heart of the complex, showing how spiritual and military functions merged during medieval times. Visitors can still explore the chapel's interior today and understand the architecture that was typical for that era.
Entry requires advance reservations to explore the site and its defensive structures. It is wise to wear comfortable shoes, as the grounds are located on a hillside and must be explored on foot.
The Piccolomini family played a key role in reshaping the fortress, equipping it with targeted towers and new fortifications that made it even more heavily defended. These alterations made the structure considerably more resistant to attackers and helped protect the coast effectively.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.