The extra name "Castelferrato" was added to Gagliano in 1862, because the town is dominated by a fortified castle, locally known as the "iron castle ("castello ferrato"), that stands on the top of a crag some 650 metres in altitude - the Rocca, the enormous mass towering high above the houses. The original layout of the castle is thought to be 11th cent. The castle became important when it was chosen by Frederick II as a place where he could find peace and tranquillity. It took over ten years to transform the castle into a luxurious residence that was safe from the dangers of the ever more frequent plots hatched by the enemies of this wise and cultured monarch. At a later date the lord of the castle was Montaneiro Perio De Sosa, and in 1392 it became the property of Perio Sancio de Colatajuro. Various noble families succeeded each other as owners of the castle, including the Centelles family, the Gallettis, and the Castellos, until feudalism was finally abolished.

Details of the Gagliano Castelferrato Castle

(click on the photos to enlarge)