Terravecchia Castle in Giarratana
The Castle of Terravecchia in Giarratana extends within the Archaeological Area of Terravecchia.
The existence of the castle of Giarratana is documented starting from the fourteenth century. The fortification was destroyed and abandoned following the earthquake of 1693, when the town was rebuilt further downstream.
The entire archaeological area of Terravecchia has been the subject of studies and archaeological excavations for several years which have made it possible to reconstruct the map of the ancient city, various plans of its buildings and a reconstructive reading of the castle layout.
The castle had a regular, quadrangular plan, with a central tower to the complex, three circular corner towers and a series of sloping terraces in which are identified circular structures, probable towers.
On the top of the hill there are also remains of wall structures, such as walls, remains of towers, and heaps of stones, which refer to a large fortified building. The external curtain wall has three circular angular towers and on one side also an ogive window.
Among the most significant ruins found in the archaeological area we find: the ancient Church of San Giovanni, the main place of worship of the time; historic streets; ancient dwellings.
