A treasure kept secret until now reopens its doors: the castle of Melfi in Basilicata reveals a new soul thanks to paths through secret courtyards and archaeological finds that will be officially inaugurated on October 12, 2026. More than 3,000 square meters can be visited through a brand-new itinerary. The town of Melfi is ready to reveal a historical soul that few knew until now.
The Castle of Melfi Reborn
With 10 towers and a fascinating past, the Castle of Melfi is a monument not to be missed, especially from October 12, when, after the inauguration at 16:00, it will be possible to visit it in its entirety also by accessing courtyards that had remained secret for many years. In addition to reclaiming spaces closed to the public, the project takes us through history via new tourist itineraries that restore value to one of Basilicata’s symbolic sites.
With its sturdy walls, the castle was built in the 11th century and passed from hand to hand first to the Normans and then to Frederick II who here promulgated the Constitutions of Melfi. After him, it was owned by the Angevins and then the Dorias, who left a recognizable imprint on the architecture.
To achieve this result, significant works were required, made possible also thanks to the PON “Culture and Development” FESR 2014-2020 which provided the necessary funding to carry out the interventions. The redevelopment of the exterior spaces of the fortified complex has returned an important monument to the citizens who from October 12 will be able to access a new itinerary that goes beyond the best-known towers, showing places kept in the shadows to tell centuries of history.
The new paths between secret courtyards and archaeological finds
The most intriguing part? It hides outside the castle’s grand halls, where the Spalti circuit enriches itself with passageways, courtyards and archaeological testimonies that tell a less-known face of the fortress. What to visit? Certainly the Armigeri Court and the Court of Mortorio which open to visitors for the first time. Among the elements that enrich the new itinerary stand out the Doria Fountain, the snow well, historically used to store snow and ice, and a long wall identified in the Court of Mortorio. Details that may seem small compared with the imposing towers, but that tell a great deal about daily life and the evolution of the complex.
How to visit it: info and prices
From Monday, October 12, after the inauguration, the visiting hours will be:
- Monday 14-20;
- From Tuesday to Sunday 9-20;
- The prices are 5 euros for a full ticket and 2 euros for the reduced rate.
Where the Castle of Melfi is and how to reach it
The Castle of Melfi is located in the most characteristic part of the Vulture area, among unique landscapes and medieval villages; the historic building that dominates Basilicata’s town is situated in the province of Potenza in Melfi, more precisely on Via Normanni. To reach it, driving is recommended: those coming from Naples or Bari should take the A16 motorway and then exit at Candela, continuing for about 20 kilometers to the town. An alternative is the train with stops at the eponymous station on the line linking Foggia and Potenza.
