What is the history of the Baronial Castle of Policoro?

The Baronial Castle began around the year 1000 as a fortified farmhouse built by Basilian monks who used it as a monastery and agricultural production center. Over the centuries, it was enlarged and reinforced by the Normans (13th century), Angevins, and Aragonese to defend against Saracen attacks, and was later converted into a noble residence by Princess Maria Grimaldi Gerace Serra in 1791.

Why is the Baronial Castle also called Berlingieri Palace?

The castle was renamed after Baron Berlingieri of Crotone, who purchased the property in 1893 and became its owner. The dual name reflects the castle's significant connection to the Berlingieri family, who held the estate during an important period of its history.

Where exactly is the Baronial Castle of Policoro located?

The Baronial Castle is located in the historic center of Policoro, a town in the Basilicata region of southern Italy. Its central position in the town makes it easily accessible and a notable landmark of the local area.

What happened to the castle during the 1950s land reform?

During the 1950s, land reform expropriated Baron Berlingieri's land, subdividing the property and distributing it to families from throughout Basilicata. After a period of neglect following this redistribution, the castle was eventually restored to its former glory through comprehensive restoration work.

What can visitors see at the Baronial Castle of Policoro today?

Visitors can explore a beautifully restored medieval castle that showcases nine centuries of architectural evolution, from its original Basilian monastery origins through Norman, Angevin, and Aragonese modifications, to its transformation into a noble residence. The castle's restoration has returned it to its former splendor, making it a significant historical attraction in Policoro's historic center.

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Palaces, Villas and Castles 📍 Policoro, Italy 127 views

Baronial Castle

the Baronial Castle of Policoro, located in the historic center of the town of Policoro, in Basilicata, Italy. This castle dates back to the 13th century and was built by the Normans to defend the town from Saracen attacks. The castle was later enlarged and reinforced by the Ange...

Photo · Marion R.

Baronial Castle — Policoro, Italy.

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Policoro

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Palaces, Villas and Castles

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About Baronial Castle

Baronial Castle - Policoro | Secret World Trip Planner

the Baronial Castle of Policoro, located in the historic center of the town of Policoro, in Basilicata, Italy. This castle dates back to the 13th century and was built by the Normans to defend the town from Saracen attacks. The castle was later enlarged and reinforced by the Angevins and the Aragonese.The Baronial Castle, also known as the Berlingieri Palace, arose around the year 1000 as a fortified farmhouse, changing in the following centuries. Basilian monks were the initiators of the construction of the building whose function was as a fortified monastery and agricultural production center.Later, in 1791 Princess Maria Grimaldi Gerace Serra bought it and turned it into a noble farmhouse and built the village around it. In 1893 the castle passed to Baron Berlingieri of Crotone, after whom it was named.In the 1950s, land reform expropriated the Baron's land, subdividing the property and entrusting it to families from all over Basilicata. After a period of neglect, the castle returned to its former glory through restoration work.