Norman Castle (Anversa degli Abruzzi)

In the heart of the historic center of Anversa degli Abruzzi, in a dominant position over the village, stands the Norman Castle, one of the main attractions of the town. Today, while the medieval tower appears as a ruin, the 18th-century structure is a private property, visitable by appointment. The castle was built on a Norman watchtower, possibly on a previous construction, as suggested by the presence of the baronial chapel of San Michele. In the 15th century, the castle was renovated and expanded by Antonio di Sangro, who transformed it into an important residence. During the Maiella earthquake of 1706, the tower and much of the structure were severely damaged, reducing the castle to a simple house-tower. In the 20th century, the castle was visited by Gabriele d’Annunzio, who drew inspiration for his tragedy “La fiaccola sotto il moggio,” set in a ruined castle and linked to the decline of the Di Sangro family. The architecture of the castle is composed of several building bodies, including the 11th-century Norman tower and the 15th-century De Sangro palace. The tower, which once towered over the structure, has lost its crowning due to the collapse, but still retains one intact side. The palace is characterized by balcony windows and smaller windows framed in marble, with a comital chapel dedicated to San Michele Arcangelo. Inside the castle, it is possible to visit the Park of Literary Arts of Gabriele d’Annunzio, created in his honor in the 1990s. This park hosts a small museum dedicated to the poet, with exhibitions on the historical events of the town and the D’Annunzio period, as well as cultural events celebrating the figure of d’Annunzio. The castle’s garden is accessible to the public, offering a panoramic view of the village and the surrounding valley, making the castle a fascinating place to explore, rich in history and literary suggestions.