Vicalvi Castle

Vicalvi Castle, dating back to the 11th century, stands atop the hill overlooking the village of Vicalvi in the Comino Valley, near the Abruzzo–Lazio–Molise National Park in Frosinone province. Though now in ruins, its nearly intact double polygonal walls reveal its construction phases and its role within a wider defensive network that included the nearby castles of Alvito and Picinisco.

Originally a Lombard stronghold under the princes of Capua, it passed to Montecassino Abbey in 1017, then to the d’Aquino family in the 13th century, who strengthened it with twin walls. After brief control by the Étendard family, it came to the Cantelmo, who abandoned it in favor of Alvito, leading to its decline. In the early 19th century, the Duke of Alvito sold it to the Celli family.

Traces suggest earlier fortifications from the 5th–4th century BCE, with the first written record from 937. Major Gothic-style renovations occurred in the 14th century, during Étendard rule.

The castle is said to be haunted by the “Chained Lady”, a former courtesan who, according to 18th-century tales, murdered her lovers while her husband was away. Upon discovering her crimes, he had her walled alive in one of the towers.

Address
Via Simoncelli Vincenzo 22, Vicalvi, Italy

Established
11th century