Castel del Monte, Apulia

Castel del Monte - the most enigmatic and mysterious castle in Italy. It was built in 1240 - 1250's during the reign of the Emperor Frederick II. 

Castle has long been admired by all its grandeur and power. Casta Del Monte has a lot of myths and legends about the reasons for its construction. The fact is that in contrast to the defensive structures of the time, the castle has a shaft and a moat, it has no drawbridge. The castle is also no facilities for storing supplies, a separate kitchen, as well as facilities for horse stables. Interestingly, the internal spiral staircase twisted to the left, not the right, as is customary in the castles of the time for the convenience of Defense. 

The castle Casta del Monte windows are placed in a special way - the sunlight passes so that the lock does look like a giant astronomical device or a sundial. Purpose of the castle remains to this day a mystery. 

It is assumed that the castle served as a hunting residence. However, some researchers disagree, because the interior was richly decorated too. 

Get to Castel del Monte is possible by car or shuttle bus that runs from the city of Bari, located just 55 kilometers away from the castle.