Cancellara Castle – a monument symbol of medieval history

History and description

Built around 1300 by the Acquaviva d’Aragona family, the castle soon became a noble residence for several dynasties. After the earthquake of 1694 and the subsequent period of abandonment, it first took on the appearance of a military fortification and later became a baronial residence, as well as serving at times as a prison and a school. Constructed in limestone, the manor is developed over three levels and two inner courtyards, featuring a keep, a main entrance, a chapel, and a massive retaining wall about 40 meters high.

Curiosities

The building is linked to numerous local legends, one of which claims it was designed with about 365 rooms—one for each day of the year—including one mysterious chamber into which no light ever penetrates.

Access

The castle is open to the public only for specific events and scheduled guided tours.

How to reach it

Located at the top of an ancient village, the manor can be reached by car via the state road towards Cancellara, by train to the village’s railway station, or on foot from the historic center.

A medieval symbol now nominated among the “Luoghi del Cuore” (Places of the Heart) by the Italian Environmental Fund (FAI), Cancellara Castle is a truly evocative site to admire within a timeless natural landscape.

Photo credits: Marilisa biscione (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 4.0