Castel del Monte
Castel del Monte is a unique masterpiece of medieval military architecture. Its form is perfect, its design a harmonious blend of cultural elements from Classical antiquity, Muslim architecture and the Cistercian Gothic of northern Europe.
Sponsor of its construction was Emperor Frederick II von Hohenstaufen. He was a man of many talents: an absolute monarch but also a great lover of culture. He spoke several languages and was interested in mathematics, astronomy and natural sciences. His stay in the Middle East (for the Crusades) heavily influenced his thinking.
The castle dates from 1240. After Frederick's death, it slowly fell into great disrepair. The mosaics and statues that have decorated the interior, were looted.
Visit January 2005
The castle has been built on a hill, in the middle of nowhere. To find the road to nowhere was not so easy, the signposting is a bit scarce, but find it I did. You can see the castle from afar, towering above the endless number of olive trees in the quite lovely environment.
The perfect octogonal shape of the building is its main asset. Among the many comparisons that can be made, the Taj Mahal also sprang to my mind. The special kind of limestone with quartz used here from a distance looks like marble (from which the Taj is made). And the Moghuls had some inspirations in common with Frederick.
I also took a look inside, but there's not much to see anymore. It is hard to picture how people have lived here. From the many stories mystifying this castle, I didn't get the impression that it was used regularly. Probably it was "just" meant as a work of art. And for that the Castel del Monte still is admired, more than 750 years after its construction.
More photos can be found in the Picture Gallery
Reviews
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This is such an amazing castle. I want to say hi to everyone from Ambler! I LOVE CASTEL DEL MONTE!!!! hi mom! |
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One year ago I was able to visit this unique castle. It was an obsession since I was 8 years old. First notticed in the old history books during the rainy days. Then after 40 years I saw it. It was really fantastic. To be so small and so perfect. Nothing more to be added.You have to feel it. |
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Hello, I am Italian and I had the good fortune to visit this castle several times. We report a linck where you can see a virtual tour of Castel del Monte:
Http://www.pugliaintour.it/terra_di_bari.html
I do not know if I can post here a linck in which case I apologize, but for those far this is a way to get an idea of what is beautiful Castel del Monte.
Greeting all |
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Klaus Freisinger (Austria):
Castel del Monte is a true architectural masterpiece and one of the most famous castles in the world (it even features on the Italian 1-cent coin). Even for those who are not related to Frederick II (see below), there is a definite magical atmosphere to be felt there. To be sure, the inside of the castle is slightly disappointing, since itīs completely empty, but the sight of it from far away as you approach it is spectacular. It was not used for a very long time, and then only for falconry, so not much has changed since Frederickīs days. The rule of the German dynasty of Hohenstaufen in southern Italy has left many traces there, especially in the form of castles in lots of cities, but none surpass Castel del Monte in sheer beauty and splendor. |
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Joshua Altavilla (Australia):
I have never been there in my life but my my uncles are Enrique and Oscar and my aunty is Grace!! Viva Italia!!!!! |
| Date posted: August 2006 |
Grace Cincotta (Australia):
I have visited the Castel Del Monte two years ago while I was visiting family in Manfredonia. I found it to be an amazing experience. |
| Date posted: July 2006 |
Oscar Altavilla (AUstralia):
Hi my name is Oscar Altavilla and i am Enrico ALtavilla's brother. I recently went to Castel del Monte and found it very interesting.It was a wonderful experience , one that i will cherish for the rest of my life!If anyone wishes to Visit Italy i would recommend the CAstel del Monte as being their first stop! |
| Date posted: July 2006 |
Enrico Altavilla (Australia):
My name is Enrico Altavilla. I am a direct descendant of Frederick II, the once King of Southern Italy for whom the Castel Del Monte was built. It is said that Frederick had a good friend who was an Alchemist. When Frederick was in the process of designing the castle, he consulted with this particular friend. The layout of the castle follows some of the suggestions made. The elements, fire and water are arranged in the castle in line with these recommendations. One of the eight octagonal towers which circle the castle, was used by Frederick II as an Aviary which housed his Falcons. Frederick actually wrote at least one book on the topic of Falconry. I am proud of my ancestor for both his intellect and power when going into battle. To this day in Sicily, they celebrate the victory experienced against the invading army of Turkey which was lead by Frederick. May the Castel Del Monte serve as a monument which stands for 'Mens Conscia Recti'. The Altavilla Motto which translated means, ' A Mind Conscious Of Right'. |
| Date posted: June 2006 |
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