Italy’s historical and architectural heritage of fortifications will open its doors to the public during the National Castle Days, scheduled for May 10 and 11, 2025. The Italian Castle Institute, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary, is coordinating the initiative, offering free guided tours and other activities at numerous sites across the country.
This annual event aims to enhance and promote knowledge of castles, fortresses and towers, both publicly and privately owned.
Guided tours throughout Italy
Many Italian locations will take part in this edition. In Abruzzo, the Cantelmo castle in the municipality of Pettorano will be among the protagonists, while in Basilicata, the castle of Bernalda and that of Torre a Mare in Metaponto will offer a journey into history. In Calabria, Rocca Imperiale will be the center of attention thanks to its fascinating defensive structures.
Insights into the Italian regions
Campania is organizing a tour of the castles of the Sabato Valley, while in Emilia Romagna, the Rocca di Meldola will open spaces that are usually inaccessible. In Lazio, the public will be able to explore the historic Fumone Castle, while in Lombardy, Valcamonica will welcome visitors with cultural events. Also in Sicily, the fortifications of Salemi and Partanna will attract history and architecture enthusiasts.
Resources for the public
The Istituto Italiano Castelli website offers additional details on each visitable site, with historical information and details on the accessibility of the structures. In addition, the Atlante Castellano, an online encyclopedia dedicated to Italian fortifications, continues to grow with new data and discoveries. The initiative aims to make this important heritage increasingly accessible and known, contributing to the cultural valorization of the country.
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Comments (2)
The idea of opening the castles to the public is good and interesting, but I hope there is enough information for everyone, it is not always easy to find the necessary details to organize visits in advance.
Yes, I also agree that information must be clear and easy to find, otherwise many people might give up visiting these historical places that are very important for our culture.