here - Nobility Associations

KINGDOM OF NAPLES
Castle of Monte Sant´Angelo
The castle of Monte Sant'Angelo stands with its gigantic and powerful structures of
different ages in a dominant position following the irregularities of the rocky ridge
northward to a peak overlooking the valley of Carbonara di Bari. The castle was
built in a strategic position and is mentioned in a certificate of Louis II with a date
of 875. Subject to additions and changes over time, the Normans used it not only
for defense, but also for administrative and legal purposes. It became the seat of
the lordship dell'Honor Montis Sancti Angeli. Robert Guiscard built the tower of
the Normans and the throne room. Under Frederick II in 1239 the structure
became the privileged castle and home of Bianca Lancia. The Angevines
imprisoned there Swabian Princess Philippa of Antioch (sister of
Corrado Caputo of Antioch) and Queen Joanna, who was murdered in
1382. Charles III of Naples was born here to the prince of Durazzo. The Aragonese
Ferdinand reinforced the castle between 1491 and 1493 by building towers and
restoring the circular hull-shaped tower. The castle was then transferred to
Skanderbeg who kept it for twenty years. In 1497 the castle went to Gonsalvo of
Cordova, and subsequently to the Grimaldi princes. Toward the end of the 1700s
Ferdinand of Bourbon gave it to Cardinal Ruffo. Abandoned and dilapidated, the
castle became a refuge for flocks and shepherds. It is currently owned by the
municipality.
The Hohenstaufen Dynasty - Page 148 of 200