Castel Capuano

Castel Capuano is a historic fortress located in Naples, southern Italy, situated at the southwest end of Via dei Tribunali. Its name derives from its original position within the city walls where the road led outward to the city of Capua. Constructed in the 12th century by William I of Sicily, the structure was significantly expanded by Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, who transformed it into one of his royal palaces. The castle holds deep historical significance, having served as a site for royal residence and dramatic political events, such as the 1432 assassination of Sergianni Caracciolo by knights within its rooms.

During the 16th century under Spanish rule, the building's function shifted dramatically when Viceroy Pedro Álvarez de Toledo consolidated the city's legal offices there. It became the Hall of Justice, known as the Vicaria, with its basements serving as a prison for centuries. Although the castle has undergone numerous restorations, including a major effort in 1860, it no longer retains much of its original medieval appearance. Notable features that remain include the arms of Emperor Charles V above the entrance and the nearby Fontana del Formiello at the rear exterior.

Today, the ownership of Castel Capuano lies with the Naples Comune. While it recently housed the Naples Hall of Justice, those functions have moved to the new Civic Center. The castle is currently in a transitional phase; it remains in use but offers only limited public access as it undergoes processes to become a museum. Despite losing some of its ancient architectural integrity through various modifications over the centuries, it stands as a enduring landmark of Neapolitan legal and royal history.