CASTELLO ARAGONESE
Latest page update: 14 December 2024
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Castello Aragonese is a medieval castle located in Ischia Ponte and is perhaps the most iconic and intriguing of all Ischia's sights.
It dates back nearly 2,500 years when the original fortress was built by Hiero I, a tyrant from the Sicilian region of Syracusa. In the early days after its creation, the site comprised of two watch-towers to guard against attacks from enemy forces, while the sea surrounding it offered its greatest source of protection from any potential raids. |
Castello Aragonese, Ischia Ponte
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Castello Aragonese Ischia
Control of the rock-fortress changed hands between Neopolitan and Roman forces for many years with its strategic position in the region seen as vital for trade and protection of the island's resources.
In the middle ages the castle gained its current name due to the tenancy of the Aragonese royal family whom created much of the structure of the castle as it is seen today. In 1441 one of the most important events in the castle's history took place when it was connected to the land by the same stone bridge that still stands. The previously wooden bridge and comparatively weak fortifications of the fortress were deemed as insufficient protection against modern pirates, plunderers and raiders which inspired King Alfonso V to set about creating the magnificent citadel.
The castle has had several incarnations in its long long history. At one stage it was the home to 2,000 inhabitants of the island and has also been used as a prison in times of conflict.
For modern-day visitors to Ischia, Castello Aragonese offers a fascinating glimpse in to the history of the island as well as providing a beautiful and dramatic addition to the landscape. As the ferries and hydrofoils approach Ischia, the first thing people notice is the huge green mass of Mount Epomeo, followed by iconic sight of the castle as they get closer to port.
Any trip to Ischia would be incomplete without paying a visit to Ischia Ponte where you can cross the bridge from the main square and visit the incredible citadel inside. As well as the castle grounds there is also a Torture Museum which lays testament to the chequered past of this historic venue and offers some truly gruesome examples of implements that were used to extract confessions from prisoners. For more information about the torture museum please click on the green button below.
The Castle is open between 09:30 and 19:00 and entry costs €10 for adults.
In the middle ages the castle gained its current name due to the tenancy of the Aragonese royal family whom created much of the structure of the castle as it is seen today. In 1441 one of the most important events in the castle's history took place when it was connected to the land by the same stone bridge that still stands. The previously wooden bridge and comparatively weak fortifications of the fortress were deemed as insufficient protection against modern pirates, plunderers and raiders which inspired King Alfonso V to set about creating the magnificent citadel.
The castle has had several incarnations in its long long history. At one stage it was the home to 2,000 inhabitants of the island and has also been used as a prison in times of conflict.
For modern-day visitors to Ischia, Castello Aragonese offers a fascinating glimpse in to the history of the island as well as providing a beautiful and dramatic addition to the landscape. As the ferries and hydrofoils approach Ischia, the first thing people notice is the huge green mass of Mount Epomeo, followed by iconic sight of the castle as they get closer to port.
Any trip to Ischia would be incomplete without paying a visit to Ischia Ponte where you can cross the bridge from the main square and visit the incredible citadel inside. As well as the castle grounds there is also a Torture Museum which lays testament to the chequered past of this historic venue and offers some truly gruesome examples of implements that were used to extract confessions from prisoners. For more information about the torture museum please click on the green button below.
The Castle is open between 09:30 and 19:00 and entry costs €10 for adults.
