When you visit Taranto, Italy, you can step into centuries of military history at Castello Aragonese, officially known as Castel San Angelo. Situated to reinforce the link between the mainland and the old town peninsula, this impressive landmark stands on ground first fortified during Greek occupation in the third and fourth centuries BC. Designed by Francesco di Giorgio Martini of Siena, the present fortress was constructed in 1496 for King Ferdinand II of Aragon.
As you explore, you will discover how the site evolved over time—from excavating a defensive moat in 1481 to repelling an Ottoman attack in 1594. Later converted into an artillery platform and then a Habsburg prison in 1707, the castle once held illustrious prisoners like French general Thomas-Alexandre Dumas after his ship sought refuge in Taranto Harbour in 1799. Although three of its original seven towers were removed in 1883 to widen the canal and construct the Ponte Girevole, the structure remains deeply fascinating.
Today, the fort is occupied by the Italian Navy, which began extensive restoration and archaeological work in 2003 to unearth plasterwork and reveal Byzantine-era fortifications. Be sure to stop by, as this historic naval site is open for tours.
What to see at Castello Aragonese
- See a 1496 fortress designed by Francesco di Giorgio Martini of Siena for Ferdinand II of Aragon.
- Discover layers of history dating back to Greek fortifications from the third and fourth centuries BC.
- Learn about famous 1799 captives like French general Thomas-Alexandre Dumas when the fort served as a prison.
- Examine ongoing Italian Navy archaeological work revealing ancient Byzantine-era structures.
Visiting tips
Take advantage of scheduled tours to explore this historic Italian Navy-occupied site.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Castello Aragonese is easy to reach on Taranto’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Taranto Cathedral. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Taranto travel guide.
See the full Taranto travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.