Bitonto and the Angioina Tower
The Angioina Tower of Bitonto is a symbol of Puglia's medieval history, visitable and part of the city's cultural heritage.
Bitonto is a municipality in the metropolitan city of Bari, in Puglia. Located just a few kilometers from the capital, it is known for its rich artistic and historical heritage. One of the most important testimonies of the medieval past of the city is the Angioina Tower, located in the heart of the historic center.
The Angioina Tower of Bitonto is what remains of the castle built by the Angioin dynasty in the 13th century. At that time, the Kingdom of Naples was under the control of the House of Anjou, and Bitonto represented a strategic point both militarily and economically. The tower primarily had a defensive function. It was part of the fortification system that surrounded the city. It was also a symbol of Angioin power, built to assert the king's presence and control over the territory.
Originally, the castle was supposed to be much larger. Today, only the tower remains of the structure, which still retains much of its grandeur. The tower has a square base and thick walls made of local stone. It stands about 20 meters tall. The openings were few and narrow, designed for military purposes rather than aesthetics. At the top, there were probably battlements and positions for defense.
Inside, there are narrow stairs connecting the different floors. Some internal rooms are still accessible and used for exhibitions or cultural events. Over time, with the end of Angioin domination, the castle lost importance. Many parts were dismantled or abandoned. Only the tower has remained standing as a silent witness to the history of Bitonto.
In the following centuries, the tower was used for various purposes: storage, prison, lookout tower. Today, the Angioina Tower is recognized as a cultural asset. It is open to visitors and is part of the city's tourist routes. It hosts exhibitions, events, and cultural initiatives, especially during the summer.
It is easily reachable on foot from the historic center, near the Cathedral of Bitonto and other important monuments. The tower is one of the symbols of the city. Anyone visiting Bitonto cannot miss the opportunity to see it up close. It offers an authentic glimpse of Puglia's medieval history.
Along with the Romanesque Cathedral, the ancient walls, and the noble palaces, the Angioina Tower tells the glorious past of a city that is now vibrant, welcoming, and ready to share its heritage. The tower is generally open to the public on holidays and during cultural events. Hours may vary, so it is advisable to check with the local tourist office.
Entry is free or at a symbolic fee during guided tours. Bitonto is easily reachable from Bari by car, train, or bus. From the train station, one can reach the tower with a walk of about 15 minutes. The Angioina Tower of Bitonto is more than just a monument. It is a living memory of Puglia's medieval past, a symbol of resilience, and a place that continues to tell stories. Visiting Bitonto also means getting to know this tower, which has watched time pass for centuries. A further reason to include Bitonto in your itinerary to discover Puglia.
