Castel del Monte is an extraordinary place. Considered one of the 15 most beautiful castles in the world according to the renowned magazine 'National Geographic'. Everyone knows this castle, but many do not know, where it is exactly.

The castle is an Italian national monument, it is under the protection of UNESCO, and & egrave; depicted on the Italian currency by a cent. This castle was built in the 13th century, by Emperor Frederick II, is located on a hill at < Strong>Andria, in Puglia.

The function of this castle is not yet known. There are different theories for its use. Some say it could have a military function, but the interior architecture and the not-so-strategic situation do not correspond to this hypothesis. In fact, the castle does not have defensive elements typical of medieval castles, the absence of a moat, a drawbridge, kitchens, basements and stables underline the lack of services for a possible army.

For others, the debate on the function of the building moves towards the hypothesis of a secular temple, a temple of knowledge, linked to the astrology, geometry and the Egyptian pyramids themselves. Others suggest civil use, it could have been a hunting castle, but again the stables are missing, where horses, kitchens and other services are missing.

The building has an octagonal plan, consists of two floors, the upper floor is richly embellished. On the eight corners the octagonal towers were built, in which the stairs go up inside. The castle also has an octagonal courtyard, also with an unknown function. There are several legends in connection with the castle, one of this tells, that for a period of time the legendary Holy Grail was preserved here.

If you have decided to spend your holidays in Puglia, do not miss visiting Castel del Monte. The building is completely empty, without furnishings, the tour, preferably done with an expert guide, takes about 30 minutes.