Castel del Monte is one of the most original and mysterious building works of the Middle Ages, which has fascinated and inspired countless artists and authors over the centuries.

The description of the library in the tower in Umberto Eco’s “Name of the Rose” clearly owes much to Castel del Monte. The architect behind this Apulian treasure is unknown, but tradition has it that it was originally designed by Frederick II himself (1194-1250). The building’s style is Romanesque but also early Gothic so typical of this region.

The castle was started in 1240 but it is not known with certainty when it was completed, possibly in 1250. It was first called Castel di Santa Maria del Monte after the nearby Benedictine monastery, which has today disappeared.