The Aragonese castle
The Aragonese Castle, the most impressive historical
monument in Ischia,
stands on a volcanic rock connected to the island by a bridge built in
1438 by Alfonso of Aragon. The Castle, overlooking the vast horizon of
the sea, was originally built as a castrum in 474 B.C. by Jerome of Syracuse
and, after a long period during which it was abandoned, it reached its golden period during the fourteenth century. Under
the Aragonese dinasty , it became a political, cultural and spiritual centre
of notable interest. The Renaissance court of the noble poet Vittoria Colonna, saw the peak of the
castle splendour last more than a century.
This very special ambience housed a small chic hotel and 3 independent accommodations, each with spectacular
views.
The castle walls housed churches, courtyards, antique archways, terraces, gardens and arcades with outstanding
views of the sea, the peninsula, the harbour
of Ischia.
Probably built on the remains of a garrison of the 5th century A.D., the tradition says it was originally a garrison of Syracuse dictator Jerone
(who gave the place its name) and that it was still called in the Middle Ages Castle Gerone. At
that time a small citadel rose around it, with houses and churches. In 1438 Alfonso I of Aragona
ordered the 228-metre long bridge to be built in order to connect the island where the castle
rose to the land. Under the d’Avalos family, the castle rose to great splendour. Later
historical events caused it to pass to the French, the English and finally
the Bourbons, who used it as a prison. Presently it is private property.
I.I.S. Carlo Urbani – Rome/Italy
2nd form/A
School year 2005-2006
Group Leader: Marco
R.
Working group:
Marco R., Valeria M., Mattia F.
Coordinator: Prof. Noemi Lusi
