Swabian Castle of Trani

The Swabian Castle of Trani  is an impressive medieval fortress located on the Adriatic coast in the city of Trani.

Originally built by the Normans in the 12th century, the castle was expanded and renovated by the Swabian king Frederick II in the 13th century. The fortress, with its quadrangular plan and four corner towers, overlooks the Adriatic Sea and is built of white stone from Trani, a precious local limestone.

Over time, the castle suffered various damages, including damages caused by the earthquake of 1456, but it was always repaired and restored.

Over the centuries, the Swabian Castle of Trani  has been used as a royal residence, prison, military depot, hospital, and salt warehouse. In the 19th century, the castle was sold to private individuals, who used it as a residence. In the 20th century, the castle was purchased by the municipality of Trani, which initiated an important restoration to bring it back to its ancient splendor.

Today the Swabian Castle of Trani is open to the public and hosts exhibitions, cultural and tourist events. The Castello Svevo di Trani is considered one of the most important monuments in the city and a significant example of medieval military architecture in Southern Italy.

Map: Swabian Castle of Trani