Corte de Castiglia
(14th-17th centuries)
Via Gelso is the third main road of the old town, it begins and ends at the sea and its atmosphere of seems suspended in time. This ancient road has maintained its original essence and is a peaceful corner of the old town, far from the noise of the bars and pubs in busier areas of the town. The houses with their time-worn arches and façades are evidence of the harmonious fusion of past and present.
Among these residences is Palazzo Griffi, once a symbol of power and prestige, much frequented by noble knights and elegant ladies. Its main doorway has long since being bricked up but its adjacency to Palazzo de Castiglia gives rise to a welcoming courtyard, which has long since lost its typical appearance of a medieval cloister.
The courtyard opens up under an impressive arch followed by a steep staircase. On the archivolt two simple yet elegant arches capture the attention of passersby. Lower down, two heraldic emblems tell of ancient and illustrious lineage. The crest of the Castiglia family, originally from Spain, stands out for its many symbols reflecting the splendour of their nobility. Via Gelso with its hidden treasures and magical atmosphere preserves the memory of a past which continues to surprise and enchant.
