Castello Aragonese Otranto

Otranto


Built in the late 15th century, when Otranto was more populous and important than today, and not long after the Ottoman raid that resulted in the execution of hundreds for refusing Islam, the castle is a blunt and grim structure, well preserved internally and offering views from the outer walls. It is also famous from Horace Walpole's The Castle of Otranto (1764), recognised as the first Gothic novel. Ask about guided tours (adult/reduced €3/2) of the castle's underground area.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Otranto attractions

1. Chiesa di San Pietro

0.08 MILES

The origins of this cross-shaped Byzantine church are uncertain, but some think they may be as remote as the 5th century. The present structure seems to…

2. L’Approdo

0.12 MILES

Dubbed L’Approdo (The Landing) and located in Otranto's new port area, this striking installation by the Greek artist Costas Varostos was erected in 2012…

3. Cathedral

0.13 MILES

Mosaics, skulls, crypts and biblical-meets-tropical imagery: Otranto's cathedral is like no other in Italy. It was built by the Normans in the 11th…

4. Grotta Zinzulusa

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An aperture on the Ionian coast below Castro leads into the magnificent stalactite-festooned Cave of Zinzulusa, one of the most significant coastal…

5. Castello Aragonese

10.18 MILES

Primarily the work of the Aragonese who ruled southern Italy in the 16th century, this sturdy redoubt retains elements built by the Angevins in previous…

6. Basilica di Santa Caterina d'Alessandria

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Most people come to Galatina to see the incredible 14th-century Basilica di Santa Caterina d’Alessandria. Its interior is a kaleidoscope of frescoes and…

8. Museo Faggiano

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Descend through Lecce's rich historical strata in this fascinating home-turned-museum, where sewerage excavations led to the chance discovery of an…