San Michele Castle

In a panoramic position overlooking the historic centre of Santa Maria del Cedro (CS) and the Regional Marine Park ‘’Riviera dei Cedri‘’, the Castle of San Michele, also known as the Castle of the Abatemarco, is an important medieval complex of Norman origin associated with the ruins of the Church of San Giovanni, which, in turn, stands on the remains of an ancient Basilian monastery, as evidenced by the frescoes found inside depicting Saint Sebastian Martyr and a triptych of the Madonna (now on display at the Town Hall). From the rocky heights, the Castle of San Michele dominates the valley of the Abatemarco River.

An unmissable stop during a visit to Santa Maria del Cedro, the fortress features a circular tower guarding the main entrance, a rectangular plan and the remains of a probable drawbridge. The Castle of San Michele was part of a larger system of fortifications that included the Tower of Sant'Andrea, which is now incorporated into the historic centre of Santa Maria del Cedro.