Location: Bari Province Map
Constructed: 11th century
Conversano Castle is a medieval stronghold located in Bari Province of Italy. Conversano Castle was originally constructed in the 6th century AD. However numerous wars and barbaric invasions reduced former defenses to the pile of ruins. During The Castello di Conversano, also known as Castello Aragonese or Castello Acquaviva, is a historic castle in Conversano, Puglia, southern Italy, originally built as a Norman fortress in the 11th century and later transformed into a princely residence. It stands as a symbol of the region's feudal history, reflecting influences from Norman, Aragonese, and local noble families like the Acquaviva. The castle is renowned for its architectural evolution from a defensive structure to an elegant mansion, housing significant art collections and serving as a cultural hub. Its trapezoidal layout with distinctive towers overlooks the city and surrounding landscape, offering insights into medieval military design and Renaissance modifications. Today, it hosts museums and exhibitions, blending historical preservation with public engagement, and is a key attraction in Apulia's cultural landscape.times in the 11th century this strategic location was seized by the invading Norman kings. They quickly erected their own castle to defend newly acquired lands. Eventually they managed to assimilate and become an important part of the Italian history. Counts of Conversano used this stronghold as their official residence for centuries. Today this Conversano Castle is partially open to the public and houses an art gallery inside.
The Castello di Conversano is situated in the historic center of Conversano, a town in the Province of Bari, Puglia, approximately 30 km southeast of Bari and 7 km from the Adriatic Sea. It occupies the highest point of the hill on which the city stands, bordering the old Largo della Corte (now Piazza Castello) and dominating the surrounding territory with views toward the sea. The castle's strategic position on megalithic walls from the ancient city of Norba enhances its prominence. Coordinates are approximately 40.9683° N, 17.1147° E. Accessibility is via regional trains from Bari to Conversano station (about 40 minutes), followed by a short walk to the historic center, or by car via SS16. Nearby landmarks include the Romanesque Cathedral of Conversano and the Pinacoteca Comunale within the castle itself.
The site's defensive significance dates back to the Gothic War (535–554 AD), with a structure likely existing on megalithic walls from the 6th–4th century BC, remnants of the ancient Norba city. The current castle was erected around 1054 by the Normans under Goffredo Altavilla, the first Count of Conversano, as a fortified stronghold. It served as the residence for the Counts of Conversano for nearly seven centuries, evolving under various lords. In the 14th century, the Counts of Luxembourg added the cylindrical tower. The Acquaviva family, who took control in the 15th century, made major expansions: Giulio Antonio Acquaviva built the cylindrical tower in the 1460s, symbolizing Conversano, while Andrea Matteo Acquaviva constructed the polygonal tower (1481–1511) with defensive features like a moat. The castle transitioned from a military fortress to a luxurious mansion, with further modifications in the 17th century under Giangirolamo II Acquaviva, who commissioned artworks, and in 1710 by Countess Dorotea Acquaviva, who added the monumental entrance on Piazza Conciliazione. Renovations continued into the late 19th century, reflecting shifts in ownership and function. Notable events include its role in feudal governance and as a cultural patron's seat, with ties to artists like Paolo Finoglio.
The castle features a trapezoidal plan with four corner towers oriented to the cardinal points, built on a foundation of megalithic walls visible at the base of the Torre Maestra. This 25-meter-high square-based Norman tower (11th century) is constructed with regular limestone blocks and offers panoramic views from its terrace. The cylindrical tower (14th–15th century), added by the Luxembourgs and Acquaviva, has a scarped base for defense and bears the Acquaviva-Orsini emblem. The polygonal (dodecagonal) tower, with its shoe-shaped scarpa and artillery slits, was designed for cannon defense and once surrounded by a moat (now partially buried). A smaller tower includes Gothic windows and a decorated viewpoint. The structure incorporates crenellations, drawbridges, and a monumental southwest entrance with windows and balconies facing Piazza Castello. Over time, defensive elements like embankment walls and drains were integrated, while later additions like the late Renaissance porch and 1710 entrance transformed it into a residence. The overall design blends Norman austerity with Renaissance elegance, with internal courtyards and corridors enhancing functionality.
Interior decorations highlight the castle's cultural role, with frescoes like the Torre Maestra's vaulted entry depicting Saints Cosmas and Damian (Norman era). The bridal chamber, decorated by Paolo Finoglio with Old Testament scenes, remains private. The civic art gallery (Pinacoteca Comunale) houses Finoglio's 16th-century cycle "Jerusalem Delivered" (1642–1645), commissioned by Giangirolamo II Acquaviva, depicting Tasso's epic with large canvases. The Pinacoteca Francesco Netti on the second floor features additional artworks. Exhibitions include "Nozze al Castello" with 19th–20th-century period clothing and Crusade legend paintings (over 400 years old). Artifacts encompass heraldic emblems, such as the Acquaviva-Orsini symbols on the cylindrical tower, and historical furnishings in conference rooms. These elements underscore the castle's transition to a cultural venue, with themes of chivalry and biblical narratives.
As of August 25, 2025, the Castello di Conversano is partially open to the public, with some wings still inhabited privately, while municipal sections host exhibitions and events. It is well-maintained, hosting international shows like Chagall retrospectives and permanent displays of Finoglio's works, period clothing, and historical paintings. The castle's medieval atmosphere and night lighting make it a picturesque landmark. Visiting hours are not always clearly posted online, but it is typically closed on Mondays; confirm via local tourism sites or by phone. Admission fees are modest (around €5–€10, based on exhibitions), with disabled access from Piazza Conciliazione. Highlights for visitors include the art galleries, towers (though ramparts may be inaccessible due to stairs), and scenic views. Reviews praise its historical depth and exhibitions but note occasional unexpected closures and steep stairs. Guided tours are available, and it is wheelchair-accessible in parts. Combine visits with Conversano's cathedral and historic center for a full experience.