Charles V Castle

The entire history of Crotone is embedded in the layers of stone of its Castle, built in medieval times on the Magna Graecian acropolis of Kroton. The Byzantines built it to defend the city from Saracen raids, but over the centuries it has undergone several structural changes, based on the architectural choices of the ruling peoples.

During the Aragonese reign in the 15th century, the mighty towers, the Torre Comandante and the Torre Aiutante, were built. In the 16th century, under Emperor Charles V, Crotone was included in a major coastal fortification project. The walls and ramparts were designed, but then, once the two ramparts were completed, the funds ran out and the Aragonese towers remained unchanged. The rock on which the Castle stands overlooks the sea on one side and the countryside on the other, offering visitors a spectacular view thanks to its dominant position.

It is possible to visit the interior, which also houses the Civic Museum and the Municipal Library, and enjoy the beauty of the mighty walls, the towers and the view from the top of the ramparts. The peculiarity of the imposing fortress of Crotone is that it combines different defensive architectural techniques. This mixture of styles makes the castle a unique place in which to admire the military engineering of the time.

Today, the structure hosts cultural events and, upon reservation, you can take a guided tour to discover the history and architecture of the Castle of Charles V.