Castello di Arechi, Salerno, Campania, Italy

But still earlier, although probably without any kind of fortification, on the Salerno hill where the castle rises there was a previous settlement of Roman times. It seems that the Lombard duke Arechi II then just strengthened the fortress integrating it in a more articulated urban defensive system.

Subsequently in 1077 the Arechi castle became a Norman stronghold. Later on, it acquired great relevance within the Aragonese defensive system, to lose progressively importance with the changing war techniques, to be finally almost abandoned in the 19th century.

Currently, the castle is property of the province of Salerno, and is a center for exhibitions and seat of a library, specialized in the study of fortification works.

More info on the city of Salerno