The first documented mention of the fortress during the Middle Ages dates back to 1096, as an army was sent into the Holy Land. Over the years, the Normans, Angevins and Aragonese ruled over Montecalvo and the Castle underwent several changes in order to adapt its defensive structure to the changing needs.
After the devastating earthquake of 1456, the fief was purchased by Ettore Pignatelli, Duke of Monteleone, and from 1501 to 1806 it passed to the Carafa family. In 1611 the Castle was turned into a ducal Palace. The Palace was severely damaged by two great earthquakes that occurred in 1930 and in 1962.
Recently restored, you can reach the palace Via "Santa Maria" road that leads you through an arched entry (1505) into the courtyard. The interior of the Castle was divided into two levels. The manor has 10 meter high stone walls.
On the north-west side you can see the bastions (18th century), that are a structure projecting outward from the main enclosure of a fortification, situated in both corners of a straight wall facilitating active defence against assaulting troops.
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