Description of the attraction
Castle Castello Corigliano, built in the 11th century, is located in the town of Corigliano Calabro in the Italian region of Calabria, in the province of Cosenza. It was erected by order of the Norman ruler Robert Guiscard as part of the defensive system in the Valle Crati valley to defend against the Byzantines. Until the 18th century, Castello Corigliano was known as the Palazzo Sangro. Interestingly, in addition to the castle, the town of Corigliano Calabro is famous for the fact that there are as many as 122 churches!
Despite the fact that the castle was rebuilt several times, it has retained some of the original elements. The first reconstruction was undertaken by Count Roberto Sanseverino IV in 1339-1361. He adapted the castle for living, because earlier it was used exclusively for military purposes. It was in this castle that the future king of Naples, Charles III the Small, was born in 1345. At the end of the 15th century, a military garrison was located in Castello Corigliano. Then he was again somewhat modified. Subsequent restructuring took place in the early and mid-16th century and at the end of the 17th century. Then a low corner tower with eight sides and the chapel of Sant'Agostino were built here.
In the 18th century, the castle, which occupies the highest point of the city, became the property of the Dukes of Corigliano, who gave it a new name in honor of their family. And in the 19th century, it was last rebuilt by the architect Gaetano Genovezi. Today, part of the castle is occupied by the chairs of the Eastern University, and the other part is occupied by the historical museum. In addition, they like to hold family celebrations and various cultural events here. The most popular is the Mirror Hall with an area of about 200 sq. M. and the Piano delle Serviti gallery. Castello Corigliano, with its powerful walls and formidable views, is perhaps one of the best-preserved castles in southern Italy.
