Altamura Castle

Altamura Castle, known locally as Castello di Altamura, was a significant military structure situated in the city of Altamura within the Apulia region of Italy. Originally constructed between the 11th and 13th centuries, the fortress likely predated the official founding of the city by Frederick II, Holy Roman Emperor, in 1243. While its exact origins remain somewhat uncertain, historical evidence suggests it was initially built under Norman influence before becoming associated with Frederick II. The castle served as the administrative seat for the feudal lord governing the surrounding cluster of villages prior to their displacement into the newly established city. Its strategic importance is further highlighted by its association with notable historical figures such as Giovanni Antonio Del Balzo Orsini, who served as a past commander of the site.

Architecturally, the castle was a substantial complex measuring approximately 67 by 55 meters. Although the structure has been completely demolished and the site is no longer open to the public, traces of its former grandeur persist. The castle once stood on the location now occupied by Piazza Matteotti, an area historically known as Piazza Castello and referred to in the local dialect as u cuastidde. Today, few physical remnants survive, including an ogival arch and several stone coats of arms preserved within a nearby warehouse. Additionally, various structural elements and stones from the original fortress were repurposed during the 19th century for the construction of adjacent buildings, where they remain visible to this day.

The historical significance of Altamura Castle extends beyond its military function, serving as a testament to the region's transition from Norman rule to the imperial vision of Frederick II. Documentation from the late 17th century by Domenico Santoro noted the presence of Norman royal insignia near the castle windows, providing crucial evidence of its early lineage. Despite its total demolition over time, the memory of the castle remains embedded in the local geography and culture. The site continues to offer researchers and historians valuable insights into the medieval development of Altamura, bridging the gap between the area's feudal past and its organized urban future under imperial guidance.