A castle within a castle - that is how the impregnable Lombardia Castle presents itself, with its pentagonal plan and square towers, rising on the mountain that stands above Enna, a regal fortification divided up by a series of inner yards and walls that form three distinct courts separated by defensive bulwarks and ten towers that guaranteed the unassailability of each single section. The boundary wall measures 1,250 paces, and the immense size of the whole construction provided comfortable shelter for the local population and the military garrison. The main gate of the castle opens towards the town, there is a second gate in the west wall, and a third, known as "the false gate", opens southwards. Inside, one can visit a little church and the Emperor's quarters. The castle, which Frederick III of Aragon elected as his residence, owes its name to a garrison of Lombard soldiers stationed here to defend the fortress during the Norman domination. The remains of six towers can still be seen, while the Pisan Tower, decorated with flat-top merlons and also known as the Eagles' Tower, has remained intact.

Details of the Lombardia castle (Enna)

(click on the photos to enlarge)