Castello Normanno-Svevo (Bari)
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Raven
N 41° 07.712 E 016° 51.984
33T E 656665 N 4554704
The Castello Normanno-Svevo (English: "Norman-Swabian Castle") is an old castle in the historic port of Bari, Italy. Built around 1132 by Norman King Roger II, it is currently used for exhibitions.
Waymark Code: WMGFDA
Location: Puglia, Italy
Date Posted: 02/26/2013
Views: 4
The Norman-Swabian Castle ("Castello Normanno-Svevo") is an old castle located in the historic port of Bari, Italy, not far from the oft-visited cruise ship terminal and a perfect spot to visit when in town for a day.
It is surrounded by a moat on all sides (save for its Northern section, which used to border the sea) and can be accessed from the bridge and gate on the Southern end of the fort. Its exhibits include several architectural and historical artifacts of Apulia (a.k.a "Puglia") as well as temporary art exhibitions during the year. Entrance fee is just 1.50 Euros for adults (excl. exhibitions), open 08.30-19.30 Daily except Wednesdays.
Probably built in 1132 by Norman King Roger II, the castle has suffered many attacks and frequent restorations over the centuries:
Its first destruction was by king William I of Sicily in 1156, where it remained mostly in ruins until its reconstruction and reinforcement in 1233 by the Holy Roman emperor Fredrick II.
In 1277, Charles I of Anjou initiated a new restoration project under the supervision of the French military architects D'Angicourt and Toul.
Additional changes were made to its structure in the early 16th century during Isabella of Naples' rule: this included fortifications to its ramparts (whose alterations can still be seen today) as well as the excavation of a moat and ditch on three sides of the castle (with its Northern side still bordering the sea at that time). The castle was ultimately passed on the Sforza family and Bona Sforza, Queen of Poland. After Bona's death, however, it was returned back to local rule under the King of Naples.
In 1831 the castle was removed from the list of the Kingdom fortresses as it had been neglected and lost its defensive importance -- at which point the fortification was ultimately turned into a prison and military barracks.
In the following years the castle became destined for various additional purposes, including a riding ground for the cavalry and a gymnasium for the troops -- until the present day where it is mostly used as a tourist attraction and exhibition center.
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