Trani and its historical treasures

Castello di Trani is part of an imposing defensive system built by Frederick II of Swabia to protect the Kingdom of Sicily. It rises a short distance from the famous cathedral, strategically located in the center of a bay, whose shallow waters have always been an excellent natural defense, both from the fury of the waves and from possible enemy attacks. Interesting to visit the external walkways recently opened to the public. They give a picture of the castle of how it once worked.

Take the car and go to the monastery of column which is located south of the city of Trani. the monastery is closed for works and adaptation to new use. however it is interesting to take a nice walk that leads to the trabucco, under the monastery and towards the beach of Colonna. if the sun is shining it's nice to sit on the beach and watch the sea.

An excellent lunch break to be spent at the Terra di mare restaurant. Take advantage of the menu full of typical local dishes.

Castel del Monte was built around 1240 on a high hill (at the time called Monte Balneolo), about 540 m. above sea level, in the territory of the city of Andria, loved by Frederick II and defined with the nickname of "Fidelis", for his loyalty and bond with the Emperor.
Historical-classical studies trace the Castel del Monte back to the time of Frederick II of Swabia, although it seems certain that the Swabian Emperor stopped near the Castle only a few times.
How to connect, therefore, Castel del Monte to Frederick II of Swabia?
The first and only historical document attesting to a relationship between the Castle and the Emperor of the Hoenstaufen is a decree sent by Frederick himself to the captain's executioner Riccardo di Montefuscolo, on 28 January 1240. In this letter Frederick II of Swabia asked Richard to Montefuscolo to prepare the material for the construction (completion) of his Castle, near a sanctuary that has now disappeared (Santa Maria del Monte).
Among the manors attributable to the figure of Frederick II, Castel del Monte represents by definition the most fascinating and, at the same time, most mysterious.

The day was tiring. I recommend that you go to the hotel to take advantage of the spa path and enjoy for dinner the cuisine of the internal restaurant: it offers fusion dishes mixed with local ingredients.