Castello Valentini-Castriota

Erected in the first half of the 14th century, the Castello Valentini-Castriota in Morciano di Leuca evokes the grandeur and luxury that once characterized it.\n\nThe castle features various distinctive architectural elements such as the crenellation crowning the upper part in the shape of the fleur de lis of France, the richly decorated portcullis on the gate, and several family coats of arms.\n\nThe spacious inner courtyard opens onto various service areas such as the kitchens, the stable, the hayloft, and the warehouses, while a grand staircase leads to the noble floor reserved for guests and the feudal lord.\n\nOf the ancient building's defensive structures, only one of the four circular corner towers remains: two were incorporated into the structure, and one was demolished to allow the construction of the Carmelite convent.