Arechi Castle

About this activity

The Arechi Castle is a medieval castle that stands on Mount Bonadies. From its 300 meters above sea level, the imposing castle dominates from above the entire city of Salerno And its beautiful gulf. Traditionally, the building's construction is associated with the figure of the Lombard duke, Arechi II whose name it bears. To this day the building is home to the museum where objects from the period such as ceramics, glass, coins and metals can be admired.

Why visit the Castle of Arechi

The ancient Medieval Castle of Arechi captivates every visitor with its majesty and long history. The building existed long before it became Castle of Duke Arechi II, dating back to the Gothic-Byzantine period of the 6th century BC. High towers surround the central core of the castle, joined together by a crenellated wall with drawbridges. In short, it is an enchanted place for children but leaves adults fascinated as well. The Castle houses an interesting Museum inside where you can admire the artifacts found during the excavation campaigns that affected the Fortress. But what is most breathtaking is, without a doubt, the spectacular view of the Gulf of Salerno including Punta Licosa and the entire Amalfi Coast. There are also refreshment facilities represented by a bar and a restaurant.

The most important things to know about Arechi Castle

Unfortunately, there is no signage or brochures available to guide visitors on the walk to the castle. Nevertheless, a small elevator is available that will make the tour to the top easier.

Historical Notes and Curiosities about the Castle of Arechi

Arechi Castle existed as early as the 6th century AD, at the time of the Greco-Gothic War. That was the century when the Greek general Nereste had a castrum built. During the 7th century AD, however, the Lombard duke Arechi II chose it as his own residence and as a defensive pole because of its location. Being on Mount Bonadies, in fact, the castle was practically impregnable because any attack could be easily spotted in time. Subsequently, many other owners inhabited the castle including Robert Guiscard, Frederick II of Swabia and the Sanseverino Princes, until after the Unification of Italy when the last owners, the Counts Quaranta, lords of Fossalopara, sold it to the Province of Salerno, which began its restoration. On March 1, 1992, the Italian Post dedicated a postage stamp to the impregnable castle. The name of the hill on which the Castle stands, Bonadies means "good morning" since the first light of dawn illuminates its summit.

Ghost stories are common among the inhabitants of the surrounding area while the Castle's austerity has also inspired great authors such as Ugo Foscolo who set one of his works, Ricciarda, among the rooms of the Fortress.