The Alfonsino Castle of Brindisi, the Forte a Mare, and the Island of Sant’Andrea
If you’re vacationing in Puglia, you can’t miss the guided tour of the Alfonsino Castle in Brindisi! Visiting it will allow you to experience the city’s history by immersing yourself in a majestic and fascinating past. The Alfonsino Castle, also known as the “Castello di Forte a Mare,” stands at the entrance to the seaside city of Brindisi, precisely on the Island of Sant’Andrea.
The charm of this visit will reveal many hidden facets of this enchanting city. It is ideal for children and history lovers, but not only them, as the castle is located in a stunning position where you can also enjoy the scenic beauty of the place.
The Alfonsino Castle of Brindisi is also known as Forte a Mare and is located on a small island called Isola di Sant’Andrea. More precisely, it is situated at the entrance to the port of Brindisi, already of immense natural beauty.
History of the Alfonsino Castle of Brindisi
Construction of the castle began in 1558, commissioned by Philip II of Habsburg, and the work took a full 46 years.
Later, the castle was expanded by the Spaniards to defend against maritime attacks by the Venetians and the Turks. Brindisi thus became the main military garrison of the Kingdom. Alfonso I of Aragon decided to fortify the Island of Sant’Andrea by constructing a castle that incorporated the remains of a pre-existing Angevin structure.
Structure of the Castle
The Alfonsino Castle in Brindisi has a trapezoidal plan with two pentagonal bastions and a circular tower. Particularly noteworthy is the internal harbor, accessible through an archway carved into the walls.
The structure consists of two main parts:
- The Aragonese section dating back to the 1400s
- The section known as Forte a Mare dating back to the 1500s
This magnificent castle is spread over two floors, with a rectangular courtyard elevated above sea level. From the courtyard, visitors can access the ground-floor galleries via ramps.
Inside, there is a hall adorned with a stone-framed basin dating back to 1527. The two bastions, one round and one triangular, date to the 16th century.
The Alfonsino Castle of Brindisi was also called the “Red Castle”, owing to the vermilion color of the stone quarried from the very site of its construction.
The Island of Sant’Andrea has a conical shape, and it is believed to have housed a Benedictine abbey whose remains are preserved in the Archaeological Museum of Brindisi.
Visiting the Alfonsino Castle in Brindisi
Over the years, the castle and fortress have been attacked numerous times. Subsequently, thanks to restoration works, they were repurposed as a penal bathhouse, a quarantine station, and a mine depot during the Great War.
In recent years, restoration work by the Superintendency has aimed at recovering this gem. The castle has been revived and, finally, reopened to the public. Now, you can book a guided tour to discover the wonder of this castle and its history!
Special paths have been designed, allowing you to explore the Alfonsino Castle of Brindisi while respecting its historical features. Every day, hundreds of people visit this stunning location, leaving satisfied and eager to recommend this guided tour to others.
How to Reach the Alfonsino Castle – Forte a Mare
The Alfonsino Castle is located at the following address: Via Torpediniera Climene, 72100 Isola di Sant’Andrea BR
Reaching the Alfonsino Castle from Lecce
To reach the Alfonsino Castle from Lecce by car, it takes approximately 45 minutes.
Reaching the Alfonsino Castle from Ostuni
To reach the Alfonsino Castle from Ostuni by car, it takes approximately 41 minutes.
Reaching the Alfonsino Castle from Bari
To reach the Alfonsino Castle from Bari by car, it takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Booking a Guided Tour of the Alfonsino Castle in Brindisi
Visits to Alfonsino Castle
1. When can I visit the Castle?
The Castle is open during daytime hours, exclusively through guided tours.
2. Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is mandatory. We recommend purchasing your ticket online to avoid queues.
3. How does the visit take place?
The tour lasts approximately 50 minutes and is conducted exclusively with specialized guides.
4. Where can I get more information?
For further details, you can contact the following numbers:
- Booking link: ONLINE BOOKING LINK via our support service.
- Buzz Experience Agency: +39 3899359910 (available from 09:30 to 20:00)
- Castle Reception: +39 379-2653244 (available from 10:00-12:00 and 16:00-18:00)
Full-Day Itinerary in Brindisi for Groups:
Brindisi is a city rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This itinerary is ideal for groups who want to explore its main attractions, enjoy traditional flavors, and experience unique activities.
Exclusive Services
To ensure a well-organized and worry-free experience, we offer:
- Tour Leader: Professionals available to accompany the group and coordinate all itinerary activities.
- Licensed Tour Guides: Expert guides authorized by the Region of Puglia, available in basic Italian and English, with German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, and Polish upon request.
Morning: Guided Tour of the Historic Center
Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Languages available: Italian, English, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish
Description: The guided tour in the heart of the city will take you through Brindisi’s iconic landmarks: Link to the guided tour of Brindisi
- Monument to Virgil: Celebrating the Latin poet tied to the city’s history.
- Lungomare Regina Margherita: A scenic promenade along the port.
- Roman Columns: The iconic endpoint of the Appian Way.
- Catholic Cathedral Square: The heart of the city, dominated by the Brindisi Cathedral.
- Loggia Balsamo: Elegant medieval loggia.
- Palazzo Granafei Nervegna: A splendid Renaissance building with temporary exhibitions.
- San Pietro Degli Schiavoni: An underground archaeological area with Roman remains.
- San Giovanni al Sepolcro: A medieval circular church.
- Church of San Paolo: A fascinating building rich in artistic details.
Lunch: Traditional Flavors at a Partner Restaurant
Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Description: After the tour, enjoy an authentic lunch at a selected partner restaurant.
- Menu:
- Typical Apulian appetizers, such as grilled vegetables and seafood specialties.
- Main courses, such as orecchiette with turnip tops or pasta with fish sauce.
- Fish or meat-based second courses, accompanied by seasonal side dishes.
- Artisanal desserts like the “pasticciotto leccese.”
Afternoon: Customized Experiences
After lunch, you can choose from various activities to enrich your day:
- Option 1: Electric Catamaran Tour in Brindisi’s Port
- Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes (including a 30-minute stop at the Crypt of the Monument to the Sailor).
- Description: Experience the natural port of Brindisi aboard an electric catamaran: Link to the excursion.
- Special Stop: The Crypt of the Monument to the Sailor, a place of memory with spectacular views.
- Option 2: Visit to the Alfonsino Castle
- Duration: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Description: Reach the island hosting the Alfonsino Castle, a majestic fortress with a stunning sea view.
- Option 3: Free Time in the Historic Center
- Spend time exploring on your own, visit local craft shops, or relax at one of the waterfront cafés.
Logistics and Useful Information
- Transportation: Transfer services to and from the city or your accommodation available upon request.
- Flexibility: Itineraries can be customized based on the group’s needs.
- Languages: Expert guides available in major European and international languages.
How to Book
To organize your group trip or receive more information:
- Email: info@buzzexperience.it
- Phone: +39 3899359910
- Tour Operator Website: www.buzzexperience.it
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