In the upper part of Monte Sant’Angelo stands another very interesting place: the Castle, a fortress dating back to the first half of the ninth century built at the behest of Orso I, bishop of Benevento. Particularly impressive is one of its oldest parts, the Tower of the Giants, about 18 meters high and with walls 3 meters thick. The castle was equipped with residential areas, but there was no lack of rooms for prison. The structure has undergone several changes over time, originally a Byzantine castrum, in the ninth century, the fortress was later flanked by the so-called Tower of Giants. Under Frederick II it was enlarged and improved, and made the residence of the Emperor’s mistress, Bianca Lancia, with whom he lived for some years and from whom his two sons Enzo and Manfredi lived together. A graceful room, called Sala del Tesoro (Treasure Room), is still preserved from this period, characterized by ogival vaults and a strong central pillar.
