Castel del Monte

Super interesting octagonal castle from the 1240s built by Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, Hohenstaufen of Swabia and King of Sicily. Example of Medieval architecture located on a hill some kilometers away from Andria overseeing a large plain. The octagonal castle is surrounded by an octagonal tower at each corner. Mysterious and an almost inhumanly exact geometric shape, some theories claim that the octagon represented the union of the circle and the square.

The place is not worthy of a visit and shouldn't be the Unesco listed site - it's just an empty shell of a castle that is not typical for the region, doesn't tell any story of the region and the owner maybe even didn't spent time there. What looks nicely from the outside is rubbed inside so you can see only empty walles and holes in the places where supposed to be fireplaces. Go to Matera instead if you are looking for a unique unesco experience.

the environment is beautiful. the parking lot near the castle is small and always full. from the large paid parking lot approx. 20 minutes walk to the castle. the road leads through a pine forest, very beautiful.

Don't leave Puglia without visiting this Frederics II castle. Guide is preferred since the stories are more vivid.

Amazing Castle and the views are incredible. Castel del Monte is a remarkable 13th-century fortress in the Apulia region of Italy, known for its unique octagonal shape and mysterious design. Built by Emperor Frederick II. No one knows why it was originally built, some say for astronomical views, some say Frederick II’s show of money and power. It’s truly beautiful.

We had a very nice informed tour guide (Maria Zimgaro) who walked us thru this magnificent historic and unique castle. See how it towers over the trulli in the second picture.

A unique place in the middle of Puglia, quite impossible to find anywhere else in the world. An Octagonal Castle on a Hill in the middle of Parco Nazionale dell'Alta Murgia. You can walk around in the park and then visit this gem. Kindly suggested a guide or audio guide to understand the secrets behind this beautiful Building. Entrance: 10 Euros for adults, free till 18 years old.

Amazing castle and surroundings. Views are great and wide. Castle is a paid attraction but you see more than enough from the exterior. Warning: DO NOT DRIVE UP HERE. The road is limited and you will be fined. Park on the parking spot down the road. There are paid toilets, souvenirs and a small kiosk.