Mussomeli
The Castle of Mussomeli: an Enchanted Fortress
The Castle of Mussomeli, also known as Castello Manfredonico, is a medieval fortress located in Mussomeli, in the province of Caltanissetta, Sicily. Built from the 14th century, it stands on a rock at a height of about 778 meters. The castle has a historical, architectural and legendary importance that makes it a very interesting tourist attraction for visitors.
History
The Castle of Mussomeli was initially built during the Swabian Kingdom of Sicily, in the 14th century, thanks to the work of the Chiaramonte family, a noble Sicilian family. The stronghold then passed into the hands of the Castellar and later the Moncada and Lanza aristocrats. Over the centuries, the castle underwent numerous wars and occupations, resulting in damage to the structure. It is famous for the legends that surround its walls and make it an enchanted place. Among these, the episode of the three walled-up women, the tragic story of Laura Lanza, daughter of the count and baroness of Carini and the presence of a ghost, the Spaniard don Guiscardo de la Portes.
Description
Inside the walls of the Castle of Mussomeli there are numerous rooms and halls of historical and artistic interest. Among these stands out the "hall of the barons", characterized by the precious Chiaramontan-style portals, and the "fireplace hall" and the "dining room" with Gothic elements. Also interesting is the "death chamber", with treacherous trapdoors, and the "room of the three women" which are suggestive and fascinating. Outside, you can see the shelter of the guard corps and the chapel, dedicated first to St. George, protector of the Chiaramonte, then to Our Lady of the Chain, with a probable reference to the prisoners.
Restorations
The Castle of Mussomeli has undergone numerous restorations over the centuries and the most recent was carried out at the beginning of the 21st century with an investment of 2.2 million euros. The aim of the work was to restore the structure, making it a cultural and tourist hub of the historical and artistic resources of the territory.
Conclusion
The Castle of Mussomeli is a tourist attraction that absolutely deserves a visit. Both for the historical interest of the structure and the stories that surround it, and for the beauty of the places, capable of enchanting the visitor. In fact, the castle can be an excellent opportunity to discover, in a single visit, the natural and cultural beauty of Sicily.
