Castel Capuano

Castel Capuano, located at the terminus of the present-day Via dei Tribunali in Naples, Italy, is a testament to the city's rich and multifaceted history. As the second oldest castle in Naples, after Castel dell'Ovo, Castel Capuano has witnessed centuries of political, social, and architectural transformations, making it an essential stop for any history enthusiast visiting the city.

The Origins

The origins of Castel Capuano date back to 1160 when it was constructed by the architect Buono under the commission of King William I of Sicily, also known as William the Bad. The castle was initially designed with robust fortifications, reflecting its primary function as a military stronghold. Excavations in the 19th century revealed that the castle was built on the site of an ancient Roman fortress near the Gymnasium, which had been transformed into a cemetery in subsequent centuries.

In 1231, Emperor Frederick II initiated the first significant transformation of the castle, making it more hospitable while maintaining its defensive capabilities. Frederick appointed his trusted man, Dipoldo di Dragoni, as the castellan and used the castle to house important political prisoners.

The Angevin Period

With the rise of the Angevins, a new fortress, Castel Nuovo, was constructed between 1279 and 1282, becoming the primary residence of the Neapolitan sovereigns. Despite this, Castel Capuano continued to host members of the royal family, officials, and distinguished guests such as the poet Francesco Petrarca in 1370. During the reign of Queen Joanna I, the castle underwent restorations after being devastated by the troops of Louis I of Hungary, who were forced to abandon the city due to the Black Death.

Castel Capuano remained a backdrop for significant events, including the opulent wedding of Charles of Durazzo. His son, Ladislaus the Magnanimous, briefly used the castle as his residence, while his sister, Joanna II, sought refuge within its walls during her conflict with Alfonso V of Aragon. The castle withstood Alfonso's siege, demonstrating its formidable defenses.

Aragonese Period and Transformation

Under the Aragonese rule, Castel Capuano was incorporated into the new city walls, losing its role as a defensive bastion. Alfonso of Aragon used the castle as his main residence while awaiting the reconstruction of Castel Nuovo. The castle flourished as a representation of power and prestige, adorned with frescoes by the Valencian painter Jacomart Baco. Alfonso II of Naples invested heavily in creating a network of leisure residences in the eastern part of the city, with Castel Capuano as the focal point.

In 1537, the castle's function changed dramatically when Viceroy Don Pedro de Toledo transformed it into the tribunal of the Kingdom. The architects Ferdinando Manlio and Giovanni Benincasa were tasked with adapting the castle to its new role, removing military structures and redesigning the interior spaces. The underground areas were converted into prisons equipped with torture chambers.

Transformations and Restorations

Throughout its history, Castel Capuano has undergone numerous transformations and restorations. Under Frederick II, the external walls were rebuilt, and the main facade was adorned with false windows. During the Aragonese period, the castle was further embellished with decorative elements in the halls, loggias, and gardens. However, the major overhaul commissioned by Don Pedro de Toledo stripped the castle of its garden and many of the Aragonese decorations.

Subsequent decorative interventions were commissioned to reflect the castle's new judicial function. Notable works include frescoes by the Spanish painter Pedro de Rubiales and the Greco-Napolitan artist Belisario Corenzio. During the brief Austrian Viceroyalty, additional Rococo-inspired decorations were added. In the Bourbon period, more frescoes were added, including those by Carlo Amalfi and Giovan Battista Natali.

In the mid-19th century, engineer Giovanni Riegler led significant modifications to the castle, including the renovation of the main facade and the transformation of balconies into windows. The Salone dei Busti was redecorated by the Apulian painters Biagio Molinaro and Ignazio Perricci. After the unification of Italy, the facade was adorned with the coat of arms of the House of Savoy, replacing the Bourbon emblem.

Modern Era

Today, Castel Capuano stands as a symbol of Naples' rich history, having served as a royal residence, a military fortress, and a judicial center. Since May 15, 2023, it has been the operational headquarters of the Higher School of the Judiciary. Visitors to Naples should not miss the opportunity to explore this historic castle, which offers a unique glimpse into the city's past and its enduring legacy.