Info about Maniace Castle of Syracuse

Thank you for purchasing the souvenir of the Maniace Castle of Syracuse, created by Andrea Gozzo in 2024.

The Maniace Castle is one of the most important monuments of the Swabian period, over whose name hovers a legend that tells of a Byzantine leader named Giorgio Maniace. However, to date no evidence has emerged to support this thesis.

The fortress was built to defend the port and the city by Frederick II, although according to historians there remain many doubts about the purpose of the monument: in fact the parade ground is missing and the towers do not appear to have been built for defensive purposes.

Certain data on the Maniace castle include Federico's historic signature for the foundation of the University of Naples and the convocation of the Sicilian Parliament in 1321. 

The monument also hosted the Queens Constance of Aragon in 1362, Mary of Aragon in 1399, Blanche of Aragon in 1416, and the last one to have dominion over the City, Germana de Foix, second wife of Ferdinand the Catholic. In 1540 the Castle also hosted Admiral Andrea Doria during the expedition organized by Charles V against the Muslims. 

In the following centuries the fortress became a residence, barracks and even a prison. Having survived the two powerful earthquakes of 1542 and 1693, the Maniace Castle suffered irreparable damage to the entire North-West part, to the entire tower and to a part of the city walls, yet still today retains all its timeless charm and hidden mysteries within its walls.

Click here to read history and watch the video in Italian.