Castello di Francavilla Fontana, a majestic castle-palace located in the heart of Francavilla Fontana, Italy, is a captivating blend of fortress and aristocratic residence. The castle, with its rich history dating back to the 15th century, stands as a testament to the architectural evolution and historical significance of the region. Today, it houses the MAFF, the Archaeological Museum of Francavilla Fontana, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.
The origins of Castello di Francavilla Fontana can be traced back to around 1450, when Giovanni Antonio del Balzo Orsini, a powerful nobleman, ordered the construction of a fortified tower. This initial structure, designed to withstand any siege, featured a square bastioned tower, a moat, and a drawbridge. It was more of a military outpost than a residential palace, serving as a peripheral fortification of the Oria fief.
In 1547, the fortress underwent significant modifications and expansions under the direction of Duke Giovanni Bernardino Bonifacio. This eminent humanist inherited the fiefs of Francavilla and Oria and decided to enhance the castle's defensive capabilities. The architectural style of the fortress was updated to reflect Renaissance influences, adding further fortifications and transforming it into a more formidable stronghold.
The castle's most significant transformation occurred when the Imperiali family acquired the fief of Francavilla in 1572. Michele Imperiali, between 1720 and 1730, decided to convert the austere fortress into a luxurious residence. This period saw the construction of elegant architectural features, including the demolition of a wall and several shops on the northern side, as well as the removal of arches and columns supporting a pergola at the entrance. By 1739, Michele Imperiali Jr. had isolated the castle further, enhancing its grandeur and residential appeal.
Upon the death of Michelino Imperiali in 1782, the castle was absorbed into the royal estate due to a lack of direct heirs. However, Vincenzo Imperiali of Latiano, the designated heir, successfully claimed the title of Prince of Francavilla Fontana and inherited the castle along with its treasures, including jewels, furniture, a library, and theater equipment.
During World War II, the castle's second floor served as temporary barracks for various military units, including the 67th Infantry Regiment Legnano and the 139th Regiment. Post-war, the castle experienced periods of neglect until recent restoration efforts began to bring it back to its former glory.
Today, Castello di Francavilla Fontana has undergone extensive restoration and consolidation efforts aimed at preserving its historical integrity. The castle now hosts several municipal offices and tourist promotion centers. Notably, the ground floor features a chapel adorned with frescoes dating back to the 16th century, while the first floor houses the Archaeological Museum of Francavilla Fontana, showcasing significant archaeological findings from the region.
The castle's architecture is a blend of various styles, reflecting its long history of modifications. The exterior features three asymmetrically distributed floors, surrounded by a wide moat. The ground floor, with its sloped surface, retains the fortress-like appearance with monofore and casemates of varying sizes. A Renaissance-style cordon marks the division between floors, adding a touch of elegance to the otherwise formidable structure.
The first floor, less severe in appearance, is adorned with finely decorated windows that create a pleasant contrast against the heavy stone walls. The corners of the castle are embellished with the Imperiali family crests, each supported by a grotesque mask and framed by clusters of grapes, indicative of Baroque influences.
The main entrance, slightly offset to the west, features an elegant portal flanked by columns with composite capitals. This entrance is a masterpiece of architectural detailing, with a cornice that accentuates the arch, interrupted at the center by the Imperiali crest. The rear entrance, more imposing, is located on the eastern side and is topped by an iron balcony.
One of the castle's most striking features is the refined Baroque loggia on the eastern façade. Comprising four arches supported by intricately decorated columns, this loggia is a fine example of Lecce Baroque style. The columns are adorned with sinuous vine motifs, while the arches are embellished with rosettes, creating a harmonious blend of classical and Baroque elements.
Upon entering the castle, visitors are greeted by a vaulted entrance hall leading to a square courtyard. This courtyard, supported by Doric-Tuscan columns, opens into various rooms that once served as dining halls, prisons, cellars, and armories. The courtyard also houses a 14th-century baptismal font, originally from the old Mother Church, featuring intricate carvings of dolphins and floral motifs.
The grand staircase, attributed to Mauro Manieri, leads to the upper floors, where the rooms are arranged around the central courtyard. The council chamber boasts a 17th-century Lecce stone fireplace, adorned with floral festoons and the Imperiali-Spinola crest. The second floor is decorated with numerous paintings, including portraits of Andrea and Michele III Imperiali, and works by Pacecco De Rosa.
The Mayor's Room, also known as the Hall of San Carlo, features a pavilion vault with stucco and gilded decorations. Another notable room is the chapel of Santa Maria delle Grazie, commissioned by Michele Imperiali himself. While much of the original furnishings and treasures have been lost, the castle's interiors still exude a sense of historical grandeur.
In conclusion, Castello di Francavilla Fontana is not just a historical monument; it is a symbol of the region's rich heritage and architectural splendor. Its walls echo the stories of noble families, military sieges, and artistic achievements, making it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Francavilla Fontana.
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