The Castello del Balzo di Venosa, built between 1460 and 1470, stands on a pre-existing Romanesque cathedral and today, imposing, dominates the historic center of the Horatian city hosting the National Archaeological Museum.
The new fort built by Duke Pirro del Balzo was born as an important piece of a new urbanization and fortification project around the Horatian city.
Of the castle of Venosa it is possible to admire four cylindrical towers, which mark the corners of the quadrangular plan, a deep moat and a large courtyard surrounded by a Renaissance loggia.
From here you pass into the Municipal Library and the two reception rooms, with vaults painted by allegorical subjects in the 18th century, while the walkway is accessed from the entrance hall.
The interior of the basement gallery of the castle of Venosa partly houses the National Archaeological Museum which collects documentation from the Roman, Late Ancient and Early Middle Ages of the city and its territory.
On what days and times is it possible to visit it?
Balzo Castle is open every day, 9: 00-20: 00 – Tuesday, 14: 00-20: 00 closed: Tuesday morning, 25/12, 01/01, 01/05
How much is the ticket?
Only a small external part of the Pirro del Balzo 1470 castle can be visited (walkway, loggia and square). Admission is € 2.50.
Photo by Archivio fotografico APT Basilicata. Join Travelling to Italy (official group) to see more photos and to send yours. For more information visit the website www.comune.venosa.pz.it
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