Overview
Taranto's main fortification and one of its most significant monuments, the Aragonese Castle, also known asCastel Sant'Angelo, lies on the boundary between the old city and the new town of the Ionian capital. With its quadrangular plan and large central courtyard, it is located under the famous swing bridge connecting the artificial island of the Old City with the mainland.
The original core dates back to 780, built by the Byzantines to defend themselves against attacks from the Saracens and the Venetian Republic. Its extension was commissioned in 1486 by Ferdinand I of Naples to the architect and military engineer Francesco di Giorgio Martini. His orders were to adapt it to the new criteria imposed by the improvement of artillery. Characterised by cylindrical towers and internal walkways, the castle has been a key element in the events of the Tarentine community through the centuries.
Today you can view its rooms - including the torture chamber - and the Renaissance chapel of San Leonardo, which converted over the years into a watchtower and then a stable, but which was reconsecrated again in 1933. Along the corridors you will find exhibits unearthed during excavations in the city and the castle, and outside you can walk around the walls to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
