🏰 Castel Nuovo – A Symbol of Naples
There are a few sights in Naples that make it unmistakably unique, and one of them is the monumental Castel Nuovo. Its massive, trapezoidal structure and five towering cylindrical turrets have dominated the city’s skyline for centuries. Each tower is named after a saint or a significant historical figure and was built using volcanic tuff and locally sourced stone. The original design of the castle was the work of Catalan architect Guillermo Sagrera, who gave it the imposing appearance of a formidable defensive fortress.
The History of Castel Nuovo – The Angevins and the Castle’s Beginnings
Castel Nuovo, or the “New Castle,” was named to distinguish it from two existing fortresses: the oldest, Castel dell’Ovo, and the former royal residence, Castel Capuano. The construction of this new seaside royal stronghold was commissioned by King Charles I of Anjou, who ascended the throne of Sicily in 1266. At the time, the Kingdom of Sicily encompassed nearly all of southern Italy, and Charles I strengthened Naples’ position by moving the capital from Palermo.
Since the castle was the Angevins’ fortress, it was also called Maschio Angioino, which literally translates to the “Angevin Male” or “Angevin Man.” In medieval dialect, “maschio” referred to a main tower or keep, a symbol of strength and power. The name reflects both the castle’s imposing, dominant nature and its Angevin lineage.
Construction began in 1279 under the supervision of French architect Pierre de Chaulnes and was completed at an astonishing speed—in just three years. However, Charles I did not reside there for long. In 1282, a rebellion in Sicily, known as the Sicilian Vespers, erupted, forcing the Angevins to abandon the island. As a result, the castle stood empty until the reign of Charles II (1285–1309).
One of Castel Nuovo’s most significant historical moments occurred in 1294, when Pope Celestine V abdicated within its walls. This was one of the rare occasions in Catholic Church history when a pope resigned. His successor, Boniface VIII, would later become infamous for his conflicts with the King of France.
Beyond its role as a fortress, Maschio Angioino served as a royal palace. During the Angevin rule, it became a hub for the greatest artists and intellectuals of the era. The renowned painter Giotto worked here, decorating the Palatine Chapel with biblical frescoes. Unfortunately, only fragments of his masterpieces survive today, along with poetic sonnets from an anonymous author.
The Aragonese Era – Major Reconstructions
In 1443, Naples fell under the rule of Alfonso I of Aragon, who also made Castel Nuovo his residence. One of his most spectacular additions was the Triumphal Arch, a Renaissance masterpiece built between the two main towers. The arch is composed of four levels, each adorned with intricate symbolism. At its center is a bas-relief depicting Alfonso I’s triumphant entrance into Naples, while at the very top stands a statue of Archangel Michael.
The Aragonese transformed Castel Nuovo from a royal palace into a modern military fortress. The castle was reinforced to withstand artillery attacks and surrounded by a deep moat, giving it the imposing form it retains today.
The Hall of Barons and the Dark Legends of Castel Nuovo
One of the most famous rooms in Castel Nuovo is the Hall of Barons, originally designed as a throne room according to the will of Robert of Anjou. However, its name comes from a dramatic event in 1487. King Ferrante I, the son of Alfonso I of Aragon, lured rebellious barons to the castle under the pretense of his niece’s wedding. Once they were all gathered, he ordered their arrest and execution. To further make an example of them, their embalmed bodies were put on display in the Palatine Chapel, where they remained in public view until Ferrante’s death in 1494.
But the castle holds even darker legends. According to one, Castel Nuovo’s underground dungeons were used as a prison, where prisoners mysteriously disappeared. Folklore suggests that a crocodile lurked beneath the fortress, having swum all the way from the Nile River through secret underground channels. It is said that prisoners, traitors, and political opponents were thrown into its lair, never to be seen again. Another version of the legend claims that Queen Joanna II of Anjou had a secret trapdoor through which she disposed of unwanted lovers, feeding them directly to the beast.
Castel Nuovo in Modern Times
By the 18th century, the castle had lost its status as a royal residence. In 1799, its courtyard was the site of the proclamation of the short-lived Parthenopean Republic, and in the 19th century, Castel Nuovo was converted into a military and administrative building. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that efforts began to restore and uncover its historic structures.
Today, Castel Nuovo serves as a cultural landmark, home to the Museo Civico (City Museum). Visitors can explore the Palatine Chapel, the Hall of Barons, the armory, and several art galleries, featuring works by Caravaggisti such as Battistello Caracciolo and masters of Neapolitan Baroque like Luca Giordano and Francesco Solimena. During the summer, the castle’s courtyard hosts concerts and theatrical performances as part of the Estate a Napoli Festival.
Visitor Information
Admission: The castle’s courtyard is free to enter, but a ticket is required to visit the interior rooms.
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