Architettura fortificata in Calabria tra XII e XIV secolo

Abstract

This essay shows the results of a research on castles built in Calabria between twelfth and fourteenth century, with new findings
in identifications and datings. A thorough evaluation of archival and historical sources, associated with the analysis of building
techniques of the remaining structures, made possible to establish their number and propose a chronological order. The architectural
changes that happened during this times are particularly interesting: typologies were altered and the aggregation of
buildings became more complex with the addition of new uses.
It has been verified that this transformations were the consequence of the change of the domination: in the second half of the
eleventh century the Normans introduced the defensive tower, a fortified residence quite uncommon in Calabria before their
settlement. After a century fortifications became more elaborate, enhanced with more builiding and sorrounded by walls. Their
complexity was balanced after, during Frederick’s age. Stereometric shapes and building techniques, besides written documents,
helped to identify unequivocally any castle. In the second half of twelfth century, because of the Angevin seizure of power, new
changes arose, with structures, especially round towers, that declered their formal bind with the dynasty’s homeland.

Keywords : Calabria, castle, towers, building techniques, Middle Age.