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Abruzzo:
Castel del Monte
A most unique
castle was built in Castel del Monte. Frederick II built
the castle in the 13th century (as well as others in
this region) and this octagonal castle is a must see…..The
castle sits on the top of a hill all by itself — it’s
imposing and surreal looking (pale marble against the sky)…..As
you drive toward the castle, it’s all you can see in the
distance. This castle was built as a hunting lodge. It’s
hard to believe the castle was (at one time) surrounded by forests
(because they are not there now). The castle was built using the
theme of 8’s in its construction: the shape (octagonal),
the number of towers (8 — all octagonal), 8 chambers on the
first floor, 8 on the second floor and the courtyard dimensions)…..the
theme of 8’s remains a mystery today…..but Frederick
had a "thing" about numbers (or so the rumor goes).
The entrance to the castle is through a grand archway. You then
enter the courtyard and the first floor of the castle. The castle
is made of marble, has vaulted ceilings, beautiful windows, window
decorations, sculptures and an interesting plumbing system (way
ahead of its time). This is a cool castle. FYI: UNESCO
has included this castle in its list of World Heritage sights.
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