Le Castella

The castle stands on a rocky islet a short way off the Ionian shore, connected by a low isthmus that is walkable in calm conditions, so from the beach it appears to float. Fortification here goes back to earlier periods, and Pliny mentions a settlement, but the present structure is largely fifteenth and sixteenth century, built under Aragonese rule as part of the coastal defences against raiding. A keep and curtain walls survive with a courtyard inside, restored and open to visitors. The surrounding sea is part of the Capo Rizzuto marine protected area, one of the largest in Italy.

What you actually see

• The island fortress - a castle on a rock islet joined by a low isthmus.
• The keep and walls - restored Aragonese defences with a courtyard.
• The marine reserve - Capo Rizzuto's protected waters around it.
• The beach view - the castle seen from the shore at close range.

When to go

May to September; the castle keeps longer hours in summer and reduced ones in winter. The isthmus can be washed over in rough weather.

Honest expectations

The interior is largely bare stone with limited interpretation. The village around it is a small modern resort. August is crowded.

Nearby

Crotone lies north; the Sila park is inland.