Castello di Santa Severina

The Norman Castle of Santa Severina is one of the best-preserved fortified complexes in Calabria, dominating the entire village with its imposing stone structure. Built on a high tuff spur overlooking the Neto River valley, it has been the symbol of the city for centuries and one of the most evocative panoramic points of the Crotone Presila.

Its strategic position, between the Sila and the Ionian Sea, has made Santa Severina a place of great military and political importance since ancient times. The castle, visible today in its Renaissance form, encompasses over a thousand years of history: from its Byzantine origins to Norman rule, up to the transformations commissioned by noble families such as the Carafas and Ruffos of Calabria.

Interesting Facts

Legend has it that during the siege of 1506, a juror betrayed the besieged by opening a secret passage for the Carafa family, who thus conquered the fortress.

The four cylindrical towers at the corners represent a typical architectural evolution of Aragonese fortifications, designed to withstand artillery fire.



Since 1994, the castle has housed the Santa Severina Archaeological Museum, which displays artifacts from the Hellenistic period to the Middle Ages, including those from urban excavations.