photo Castel del Monte perched high, Andria

The majestic fortress of Castel del Monte stands alone on the summit of a hill in the Murge plateau, in the province of Bari. Built in the 13th century at the behest of Emperor Frederick II of Swabia, this octagonal castle has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Its unique architecture, with octagonal plan and eight corner towers, represents an enigma that fascinates scholars and visitors alike.

Castel del Monte, Frederick II Swabia, Andria, Murge, Apulia, UNESCO, octagonal castle, Federiciana architecture, Bari, architectural photography