Castello di Limatola

Limatola Castle is situated on an elevated plateau between the Taburno massif, Mount Maggiore and the Tifatini mountains, overlooking the valley of the Volturno river.
The structure was erected by the Normans on the foundations of an existing tower erected by the Longobards.

The formidable polygonal walls, interspersed with circular towers, represent an intriguing example of medieval fortified architecture.
The castle witnessed the vicissitudes of important royal dynasties, including the Angevins, Aragonese and Sanseverino families. It also played host to illustrious personalities such as Charles I of Anjou and Garibaldi.

During the Renaissance, significant renovations were undertaken which transformed the structure from a military one into a stately home, while ensuring the preservation of some of its defensive features. During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the Gambacorta, Mastelloni and Lottieri d'Aquino feudal families, who succeeded one another in Limatola, undertook significant decorative interventions. The frescoes in the chapel and guest quarters depict scenes from Gerusalemme Liberata, while the main floor features illusionistic architecture, landscapes, spirals and grotesques.From the following century onwards, the castle gradually deteriorated, succumbing to a state of total decay. The castle was restored to its former splendour by the Sgueglia family, the current proprietors of the edifice.
The interior of the castle houses a museum that collects evidence of the principal events that occurred in the area. Of particular note are the paintings dating from 1861, which depict the Battle of the Volturno.

Additionally, the castle contains significant works by the 16th-century painter Francesco da Tolentino. A fresco by the artist depicting Caterina Della Ratta, the wife of Duke Francesco Gambacorta, can be observed on the tower. Additionally, the palatine church houses a polyptych painted by the artist in 1527, which depicts the Madonna Enthroned with Child, St John the Baptist, and St Mary Magdalene.