Castello di Lagopesole
Castle of Frederick II, dating from 1242, on a hill above the Vitalba valley, with two courtyards, the keep, the Romanesque chapel and the “salone dell’imperatore”.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
Lagopesole Castle stands on a hill overlooking the Vitalba valley, at about 820 metres above sea level on the watershed between the Ofanto and the Bradano rivers. Frederick II of Swabia had it enlarged from 1242 as a hunting residence and summer retreat, on the remains of Norman-Swabian buildings used for military purposes. The Angevins completed the complex with an aqueduct, stables and a pond for raising eels.
The plan is rectangular, with two courtyards. In the smaller courtyard stands the square keep, probably earlier than the rest of the castle, with rusticated masonry typical of Swabian architecture and a cistern on the lower floor. The building is compact, with few loopholes and a single entrance on the west side, protected by two symmetrical projecting structures.
The interior includes the “salone dell’imperatore” on the upper floor, with carved capitals and corbels, and a large Romanesque chapel with a semicircular apse and a sawtooth portal. It is considered the only place of worship inside a castle attributed to Frederick II. Restorations at the end of the 20th century brought back its original appearance.
Highlights
- Square keep with rusticated masonry
- Salone dell’imperatore with carved capitals and corbels
- Romanesque chapel inside the castle
- Two courtyards and a large cistern
- Panoramic position over the Vitalba valley
- Founded
- 1242
- Operated by
- Ministero della Cultura – Musei e parchi archeologici di Melfi e Venosa
- Visitors per year
- approx. 18,963
Admission & discounts
| Adults | €2 |
|---|---|
| Reduced | €1.50 |
Free admission: First Sunday of the month, as in state museums.
Rates taken from a MuseiOnline listing updated in September 2024; it is advisable to check them before visiting.
Accessibility
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Kids & families
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Getting there & parking
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Amenities & dining
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Events & venue rental
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Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| School programs | yes |
| Good to know | Booking not required. Guided tours and educational activities are offered. |
