The Angevin Castle of Gaeta: from fortification to penal bath

The Angevin castle of Gaeta, an imposing monumental complex, has a high historical-artistic-landscape value and represents a powerful symbol of identity for the local community and beyond. Its origins probably date back to the sixth-seventh century, but the first specific information comes from the fortification interventions of the castle wanted by Frederick II of Swabia (1223-1227). The fortified structure of the Angevin period is part of the more extensive architectural system called the Angevin-Aragonese Castle, located on a rocky outcrop of Monte Orlando. The system is made up of two communicating buildings. The oldest, built by Charles of Anjou, has an irregular polygonal plan with mighty truncated-cylindrical towers located slightly further downstream. The other one, erected by Alfonso d’Aragona, conforms to a rectangular plan, surrounded by circular towers of different heights, among which stands an imposing keep. The Bourbon domination united the two castles intending to create one of the most majestic and well-equipped fortresses in Europe, located on the extreme offshoot of the Kingdom. The complex, which involves the two forts, thus becomes a model of extraordinary interest characterized by a modern fortification designed to enclose the entire peninsula of Gaeta. Over the centuries, this mighty fortification, created to protect the territory and the kingdom’s population, has become increasingly important from a military point of view, as a seat and as a prison activity carried out until 1990, determining a break with the city. Foreclosed to the peninsula, the city has had a linear urban development along the coast. The entire fortification system is the guardian of the memory of events that made Gaeta a protagonist in the history of the peninsula and represents an immaterial heritage, as well as an identity of great importance to be preserved, enhanced, and returned to citizenship. Based on digital surveys and historical maps, this research investigates the transformations undergone by the fortified complex, focusing attention on the Angevin castle and its intended use as a penal bath.