Castello Aragonese di Baia: A Fortress Through Time

Perched 50 meters above sea level on a tufa cliff, the Castello Aragonese di Baia offers a captivating journey through history and breathtaking views of the Gulf of Naples. Originally constructed in 1495 by Alfonso II of Aragon, the castle was strategically positioned to defend against invasions, utilizing drawbridges, moats, and towering walls. The site itself has an even older history, potentially built atop a Roman villa possibly belonging to Julius Caesar. Over the centuries, the castle has undergone several transformations. In the early 1500s, under Spanish rule, it was expanded by Viceroy Toledo, followed by further modifications under the Bourbons in the late 1700s. It has served various roles, including a diplomatic and cultural center, a scientific base for early volcanism studies, and even a prison. During World War II, it was used as a military prison. In 1980, the castle's management was transferred to the Campania Region, and in 1984, it was taken over by the Archaeological Superintendence of Naples and Caserta. Today, the Castello Aragonese di Baia is home to the Archaeological Museum of the Phlegraean Fields, displaying a wealth of artifacts from the surrounding Campi Flegrei area. The museum's collection includes finds from Cumae, the submerged Park of Baiae, the Rione Terra of Pozzuoli, the Baths of Baiae, and Liternum. The museum is spread across different sections of the castle, creating a dynamic experience for visitors as they explore the site's various levels, ramparts, and panoramic terraces. From the Piazza d'Armi, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Gulf of Naples.