Castello Normanno di Bonito

The Norman Castle of Bonito is located in Largo Mario Gemma, near the town hall.

Built around 1030 by William Gesualdo, the quadrangular fortress with a drawbridge over a moat was destroyed by an earthquake in 1125. The ancient features of the Norman Castle have been lost over time, due to various reconstructions (such as the one in the 15th century, which also included an extension) and various renovations over the centuries, also according to the different uses (in the mid-16th century, for example, from a military structure it became the residence of feudal lords such as the Orsini, D'Aquino and Garofalo families). The earthquakes of 1702 and 1980 caused extensive damage to the Castle, some parts of which were even incorporated into nearby buildings.

Of the four original towers, only one remains visible today, the Norman Tower, recently purchased by the municipal administration: it stands as a representative element of the ancient Bonito Castle. It is located in Piazza del Municipio and ancient paintings, probably dating back to the 17th century, are still visible along its circular walls and under its ceiling.

A historical symbol of the Bonito community, the Norman Castle still stands solemnly over the town's centre.