Faicchio
The Castle of Faicchio: a Norman Jewel in the heart of the Benevento Province
The Castle of Faicchio, also known as the Ducal Castle, is one of the most important architectural gems in the Benevento Province. Located in the historic center of Faicchio, the fortress was built in the 12th century at the behest of the Sanframondo Counts in a strategic position between the Acero and Gioia mountains and in an elevated position relative to the Titerno river.
History of the Castle of Faicchio
After being owned by the Monsorio family, who subjected it to significant renovations in the 15th and 16th centuries, the castle was purchased by the Neapolitan nobleman Gabriele Martino in 1612. He restored it, transforming it into a comfortable residence, while still retaining some defensive functions. Since then, the castle has been called "Ducal" in honor of the Duke of Martino.
In the 18th century, the Palatine chapel and bell tower were restored. At the end of the 1700s, the last Duke to reside there was Salvatore De Martino, who, having no male heirs, allowed the succession to the Zona-Sanniti family of Pietramelara, who never lived in the castle.
After the abolition of feudalism in 1806, the castle fell into a state of abandonment. In the 1930s, the podestà Orazio Rapuano tried to purchase part of the structure to transfer some municipal offices there, but was unsuccessful due to lack of funds. In the 1960s, the castle was recovered and restored by the Fragola family, who reopened it to the public on June 30, 1966.
The structure of the Castle of Faicchio
The Castle has a trapezoidal layout, with three of the four original cylindrical towers at its corners, one of which (the one facing the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta) collapsed in past centuries, probably due to one of the many earthquakes that have occurred in the area. The Castle was configured in such a way as to be able to defend the entire surrounding area, along with the nearby Sant'Antonio Gate, part of the urban walls of Faicchio.
The Castle of Faicchio today
Currently, the Castle of Faicchio is owned by a group of local entrepreneurs and is the site of a hotel restaurant that preserves the original structure of the fortress. The Castle also hosts events and exhibitions, which can be visited by tourists and visitors. Thanks to its geographical location, the Castle offers a spectacular panorama of the surrounding mountains and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
In summary, the Castle of Faicchio is a Norman jewel in the heart of the Benevento Province, which over the years has undergone important restorations and renovations. Today, thanks to the care and attention of the current owners, it is possible to visit the structure and admire its enchanting beauty, immersed in a unique and suggestive atmosphere.
