The Aragonese Castle of Reggio Calabria: journey through history

The Aragonese Castle of Reggio Calabria it is an imposing fortress overlooking the Strait of Messina, a true treasure chest of history and culture. Let’s try to get to know it a little better, starting from its origins and understanding how it can be visited.

The history of the Aragonese Castle

Let’s start by remembering that the hill on which the fortress stands today in ancient times was an important point for the protection of the wall system and that according to some authoritative historical reconstructions the lower corner of the wall was precisely the area in which it is the Castle was built. In the Hellenistic period, as the city continued its expansion towards the sea, the hill remained a place of particular military importance, while the walls were extended up to the port. In Roman times it is probable that the walls were no longer the subject of restoration due to the prosperity of the empire and that, like other more important forts along the walls, it was decided to abandon their protection.

However, things changed in the medieval period, when Belisarius entered Reggio to free it from the barbarians and found the city without fortifications. The general therefore ordered the restoration of the city walls, taking the lower part of the walls leaning against the port, and thus making the castle hill as the corner bastion of the city, facing the mountain.

The true history of the Aragonese Castle It began in the Byzantine era, between the 9th and 11th centuries, when Reggio Calabria was the capital of Theme of Calabria. The original fortress was a simple square structure, built to defend the city from Saracen incursions.

Over the centuries, the castle came under the dominion of various families: Normans, Swabians, Angevins and Aragonese. Each dynasty made changes and expansions to the structure, giving it the majestic appearance that we can admire today.

It was under Aragonese rule, in the 15th century, that the castle experienced its maximum expansion. Ferdinand I of Aragon had the two circular crenellated towers and the moat built, making the fortress impregnable. The castle became the official residence of the Spanish viceroys and an important center of military and political power.

After the earthquake of 1783, the castle fell into a period of decline. It was used as a prison and then as a military barracks. Only in the 20th century, thanks to a restoration and enhancement work, the castle was returned to the city and opened to the public. In particular, from the first post-war period to 1986 the castle became the seat of the observatory of the National Institute of Geophysics. In the same year, unfortunately, a part of the north-west side of the castle collapsed due to neglect, making the entire structure unusable.

Today, after a series of renovation works, the Aragonese Castle has become one of the most visited monuments in Reggio Calabria. Inside it houses a museum with archaeological finds and works of art, as well as several exhibition rooms. The castle is also home to cultural events, concerts, exhibitions and theatrical performances.

Visit the Aragonese Castle

Visiting the Aragonese Castle means immersing yourself in a historical-cultural context of great value. Walking within its walls, you can relive the atmosphere of the Middle Ages and admire the splendid views of the Strait of Messina. The Aragonese Castle is also a place of meeting and cultural exchange. Its evocative setting hosts socio-cultural initiatives and beneficial events, promoted by local associations and bodies.

Living an experience at the Aragonese Castle of Reggio Calabria means not only knowing the history of a fascinating place, but also letting yourself be carried away by the emotions it arouses. A journey through time and culture that enriches the soul and leaves an indelible memory.

The Aragonese Castle is in fact not only a historical monument, but also a symbol of the city of Reggio Calabria. Its imposing and reassuring presence represents the strength and tenacity of a people who have been able to overcome adversity and rebuild their identity.

Opening days and times

Over the years, the Aragonese Castle of Reggio Calabria has been affected by a series of renovation and redevelopment works in the surrounding spaces, from Piazza Castello to via Aschenez. It is now home to temporary exhibitions and cultural events.

The opening calendar is as follows:

from Monday to Friday opening in the morning from 08.30 to 13.00, with last entry at 12.30, and in the afternoon from 14.30 to 19.00, with last entry at 18.30;
on Saturday afternoon opening from 2.30pm to 7.00pm with last entry at 6.30pm;
every Sunday afternoon opening from 3.00pm to 7.00pm with last entry at 6.30pm.

We would also like to remind you that during the Christmas holidays, the Castle will make some extraordinary openings: