Perched majestically at the southern tip of the Isola del Borgo Antico in Taranto, Italy, the Castello Aragonese is a historical gem that has stood the test of time. This formidable fortress, also known as Castel Sant'Angelo, offers a captivating journey through centuries of military architecture and strategic ingenuity. Its imposing quadrangular structure and expansive central courtyard are a testament to the architectural prowess of its creators and the strategic importance it held throughout history.
The origins of Castello Aragonese date back to 780 AD when the Byzantines commenced its construction to defend against the relentless attacks from Saracens and the Republic of Venice. The initial fortification comprised tall, narrow towers from which defenders would repel invaders with lances, arrows, stones, and boiling oil. This early structure laid the groundwork for the castle's future expansions and fortifications.
The most significant transformation of the castle occurred in 1486 under the directive of Ferdinand I of Naples. He commissioned the renowned architect and military engineer Francesco di Giorgio Martini to redesign and expand the castle. Martini's vision was to adapt the fortress to withstand the era's evolving warfare technology, particularly the advent of cannons. The result was a robust structure featuring wide, low, circular towers designed to absorb the impact of cannon fire. These towers were interconnected by ramparts, allowing for the easy movement of artillery pieces. The new design included seven towers, four of which formed a quadrilateral, while the remaining three lined the moat towards Mar Piccolo.
The four main towers of the castle—San Cristoforo, San Lorenzo, Bandiera, and Vergine Annunziata—stand as silent sentinels, each with its unique story and purpose. These 20-meter high and wide towers were connected by 40-meter-long curtain walls, creating a formidable barrier against invaders. The castle featured two drawbridges: the Soccorso Bridge, which linked the castle to the countryside (now Borgo), and the Avanzata Bridge, connecting it to the ancient village, thus isolating the structure from the city for enhanced defense.
In 1491, a triangular ravelin was added between the Bandiera and San Cristoforo towers, further strengthening the castle's defenses against attacks from Mar Grande. The construction was completed in 1492, as commemorated by an inscription on the Porta Paterna, adorned with the Aragonese coat of arms. This inscription celebrates the reconstruction of the castle into a more formidable and resilient fortress capable of withstanding the mightiest assaults.
Under Spanish rule, the castle's defenses were further enhanced with expanded moats and the addition of a new fortification comprising three towers. However, with the arrival of the Habsburgs in 1707, the castle's military significance waned, and it was repurposed as a prison. This change in function marked a new chapter in the castle's history, one that would be revisited during the Napoleonic era when it once again served its original defensive purpose.
In 1883, the Torre Sant'Angelo was demolished to make way for the construction of the Ponte Girevole, a pivotal infrastructure project completed in 1887. Following this, the castle became the headquarters of the Royal Navy, marking a significant shift in its role and purpose. The early 20th century saw the commencement of restoration efforts aimed at preserving the castle's historical integrity. These efforts continued until 2005, culminating in the restoration of the castle's interior to its Aragonese-era condition.
Today, visitors to Castello Aragonese can immerse themselves in its rich history and architectural splendor. The castle houses a small naval museum that showcases the evolution of military technology and fortress architecture from medieval to modern times. The museum's exhibits provide fascinating insights into the strategic importance of the castle and the innovations that shaped its design.
One of the castle's most intriguing features is the Chapel of Saint Leonard. Originally serving various functions over the centuries, including a guardhouse and a stable, the chapel was re-consecrated in 1933. Inside, visitors can admire the coats of arms of King Philip II of Spain and two carparo stone slabs depicting a saintly bishop and a medieval warrior. The chapel's crypt, excavated in November 2003, revealed ceramic shards from the 13th and 14th centuries and a coin dating back to 1245, adding to the historical tapestry of the castle.
In conclusion, the Castello Aragonese in Taranto is not just a fortress; it is a living chronicle of the region's tumultuous history and architectural evolution. Its walls echo the stories of bygone eras, from Byzantine beginnings to Aragonese innovations and beyond. A visit to this magnificent castle offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the strategic brilliance and historical significance of one of Italy's most remarkable fortresses.
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