Among the most striking fortresses in the region, the castle dominates the landscape with its grandeur and harmony, perfectly integrated into the surrounding historic village. Built on a hill at an altitude of 520 meters, the first nucleus probably dates back to the 12th century, characterized by a tower and trapezoidal walls.
In the 15th century the castle was completely rebuilt: the walls were enlarged and three circular crenellated towers were added on scarp bases. Two of the original towers are visible today, adorned with hanging arches on stone corbels, details that are also repeated along the curtain walls. The interiors included patrol walkways, garrison rooms, and defensive embrasures.
Later interventions due to the collapse of two towers in the 1805 earthquake can be seen to the north. The southern side features an impressive scarp basement 25 meters high and 36 meters long, while the western side is enclosed between two towers and surmounted by an elegant six-arched Renaissance loggia.
The main entrance is located to the east, accessible via a staircase of 12 steps and a 15th-century Catalan-Aragonese portal. Above the arch, two coats of arms stand out: that of the Carafa della Spina and that of Paolo di Sangro, united to symbolize the alliance between noble families. The dragon that overlooks the coats of arms is interesting, a clear reference to the betrayal of the Angevins in favor of the Aragonese.
Inside the courtyard is the “Samnite fountain”, an anthropomorphic sculpture positioned in modern times, and a well connected to a 120,000-liter cistern that once supplied the entire village. A small staircase leads to the noble floors, which can still be visited today, where the residences, stables and warehouses were once located.
The village developed around the fortress, excluding the southern side, where the walls overlook an impressive rock overhang. Between medieval atmospheres and breathtaking views, the castle continues to tell a story of power, art and resilience.