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Its rectangular design deviates from the classic, hexagonal design adopted during the period of Frederick II. It is divided in two parts: the area surrounding the courtyard of honour and the area devoted primarily to military defence, with the main tower at its center. Its position along the road to Apulia made it a convenient stopover for hunting, one of the King's great passions. It probably existed even before Frederick II, since Pope Innocence II and Abbot Rinaldo of Montecassino met there, in the presence of Emperor Lothair II of Saxony during the war against Roger the Norman. In 1268 and 1294, Charles I of Angiņ stayed there (and made restorations). In 1416, both the Castle and Melfi passed into the hands of the Caracciolo family. In 1531, Charles V donated it to the Dorians. It was a temporary museum for the archaeological finds recovered during the 1980 earthquake and for more than one year housed paintings and other art, making it an essential testimony to the soul and history of Lucania. BrienzaThe area is dominated by the imposing ruins of the Angevin Castle, rebuilt in 1571. In addition to its cylindrical main tower, there is a circular semi-tower in the middle of the walled curtain, which functioned as a defence. It appears quite ruined since the earthquake. Genzano di LucaniaIn the town it is possible to see the 17th century Castle, originally an Angevin establishment and today the town hall. In the environs is Monteserico Castle (542m) where the Byzantines were defeated by the Normans in 1041. It was expanded by the Swabians and it is still possible to notice the barrel vault. The subterranean caves were the first dwellings of the Lucanian monks. LavelloOriginally built during the Swabian epoch (rebuilt in 1600). Today, it is the town hall and includes a small civic Antiquarium.
MoliternoIn addition to the remains of the Castle, it is also possible to see the main tower within the walls, which dates from the late Longobard epoch. The other two towers were perhaps constructed at a later date. Muro Lucano (Lucanian Wall)Unfortunately, all that remains after the earthquake are ruins. Oppido Lucano(Fortified Lucanian City)Also here, the substantial remains of the Castle are very well inserted amidst an intricate maze of narrow lanes and alleyways. Palazzo San Gervasio (San Gervasio Palace)Its name derives from the hunting domain of Frederick II. The Castle was renovated, but its style is still characterized by two square turrets, four mullioned windows and a three-column loggia. A small building for the stables from the same period can be seen along the side. PietragallaThe Ducal Palace of Acquaviva is noteworthy. It dates from 1400 and was restored in 1700. SeniseThe Castle dates from the 13th century, as is endorsed by the presence of the towers and merlons. It was restored in 1400. VenosaThe very imposing
Aragon Castle that welcomes to the city stands watch over a square of
particularly interesting urbanistic design. In optimum condition, the Castle was
erected in 1470 by Pirro del Balzo who conserved the defensive characteristics
of the Angevin period. It is very similar to Castelnuovo or 'Maschio angioino' (Angevin
keep) in Naples. The prisons were located in the towers, where you can still see
inscriptions on the walls. Surrounded by a moat, there is also a long entrance
bridge.
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