The Visit Puglia website (
visit link) informs us:
"Built by the Normans in the 12th century and restored by Frederick II around 1230, Bari's Swabian Castle now serves as the headquarters of the Regional Directorate.
Bari's iconic fortress, the Norman Swabian Castle now serves as the headquarters of Puglia's Directorate for Cultural and Landscape Heritage.
Positioned by the city's main entrance, a few steps away from the Cathedral, the Castle today welcomes visitors before they head into the narrow alleyways of the historic centre.
The Castle was originally built by the Normans in the 12th century, but was later destroyed in 1156. Frederick II it rebuilt between 1233 and 1240, transforming it into one of the region's most interesting fortresses, mainly thanks to its strategic position. A fascinating example of medieval construction, it also retains elements that were added in successive extensions.
Art exhibitions and events are occasionally organized at the Castle. Archaeology lovers can also admire plaster reproductions of ornamental sculptures used between the 11th and 17h centuries at the Gipsoteca (Plaster Cast Gallery)."