Castel del Monte

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Built in the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II, this freestanding castle has been a mystery for historians. Due to its location, it likely wasn’t built as a defensive structure, instead, its perfect octagonal shape, precise layout, and combination of architectural styles suggest this was a monument to mankind, reflecting cultural vision of its founder. Some theories suggest the octagon is the midpoint between the circle and square - the shapes that respectively represent God and Man. Inside, the emperor borrowed heavily from the East - installing hydraulic baths in typical Arabic fashion, as well as flushing toilets - likely the first in Europe. Today, a visit to the castle emphasises the unique design that earned it a spot on the UNESCO list - aside from the occasional art exhibit, the interior is left bare, allowing the for the guide to focus on the design’s highlights.