A Journey Through History: 5 Must-Visit Castles in Puglia

Puglia is not just a land of crystal-clear seas and centuries-old olive trees. It is a borderland, a land of conquests and emperors. If you look up while walking through our villages or driving along the coast, you will notice that the horizon is often dominated by imposing white stone fortresses.

These are the Castles of Puglia: silent guardians that tell the stories of Normans, Swabians, Angevins, and Aragonese.

For those staying in one of our Apuliarentals villas, dedicating a day to discovering these manors means taking a dive into the past, following in the footsteps of Frederick II of Swabia (Federico II), the Stupor Mundi, the emperor who loved this region more than any other.

Here is our itinerary through the most fascinating and historically rich castles.

1. Castel del Monte (Andria): The Mystery in Stone

You cannot speak of Puglia without mentioning its crown of stone. Located on a hill in the western Murge, Castel del Monte is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the symbol of the region (you can even find it on the Italian 1-cent euro coin!). Built by Frederick II in the 13th century, it is a masterpiece of mathematics and astronomy: an octagonal plan, eight towers, and eight rooms per floor. It was not built for defense, nor does it have moats. Was it a temple? An astronomical observatory? A hunting lodge? The mystery is part of its charm.

Our Tip: Visit at sunset, when the white limestone turns pink and the atmosphere becomes truly magical.

2. The Swabian Castle of Trani: The King by the Sea

Just a few kilometers from our properties, Trani offers a unique spectacle. Its castle is one of the few examples of Frederick II's fortifications built directly on the sea. In the past, a drawbridge connected it to the mainland, making it impregnable. Today, walking along its walls and gazing at the famous Cathedral on the sea nearby is one of the most beautiful "postcards" you will take home.

3. The Norman-Swabian Castle of Bari: The Fortress of the Old Town

At the gates of Bari Vecchia (the Old Town), stands the massive Norman-Swabian Castle. It is a structure that tells centuries of history: born with the Normans, expanded by Frederick II, and transformed into a Renaissance residence by Isabella of Aragon. Today it hosts the Plaster Cast Gallery and temporary exhibitions, but the real experience is crossing its stone bridge and imagining court life in the heart of the Apulian capital.

4. Castle of Conversano: The Counts' Residence

Moving slightly inland, south of Bari, we find Conversano, the "City of Art." Its castle is not just a military fortress, but a layering of styles that culminates in the residential elegance of the Acquaviva d'Aragona family. From its cylindrical tower, you can dominate the entire square. It is the perfect place to visit before a dinner in one of the many excellent trattorias in the historic center.

5. Aragonese Castle of Taranto: The Giant on the Water

If you want to go a little further south for a day trip, the Aragonese Castle of Taranto is unmissable. Its unique feature? It is managed by the Italian Navy, which offers free guided tours (often extraordinary) even at night. Built to defend the city from Turkish raids, it stands on the island that divides the Mar Grande from the Mar Piccolo, connected by the famous Swing Bridge (Ponte Girevole).

🛡️ A History Written in Stone

Why are there so many castles in Puglia? The answer lies in our geography. Puglia has always been the "Gateway to the East," the starting point for the Crusades and the first landing place for those arriving from the sea. Every stone of these castles tells of the need for defense, but also the desire to display power and beauty.

🚗 Travel Notebook: Practical Info

For our guests who want to organize a self-guided tour:

• Castel del Monte: Online booking is mandatory, especially on weekends. It is about a 50-60 minute drive from Bari/Monopoli.
• Opening Hours: Most castles are open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (always check the Ministry of Culture websites for updates).
• Free Entry: Remember that on the first Sunday of every month, state museums (including Castel del Monte and Bari Castle) are free thanks to the "Sunday at the Museum" initiative.

Stay in the Land of Kings

After a day spent among towers, drawbridges, and medieval legends, there is nothing better than returning to modern comfort. Our villas and apartments are the strategic starting point for exploring the history of Puglia, allowing you to easily reach both the coast and the hinterland.

Choose Apuliarentals for your next cultural vacation. 👉 Discover our available properties