The castle was never finished due to the sudden death of Count Tramontano, whose heavy taxation led to a revolt by the local citizenry.
The structure features three circular towers, two of which were intended for defensive purposes while the central one served as the primary residence.
The park grounds contain layers of history including remnants of ancient water management systems typical of the Matera region.
The limestone used for the castle construction was quarried directly from the hill where the park currently sits.
Castle Park in Matera, known locally as Parco del Castello or Parco del Castello Tramontano, surrounds the unfinished 16th-century Castello Tramontano. The park is situated on a hill overlooking the Sassi di Matera and the modern city. The site features the Aragonese-style castle, which was commissioned by Count Gian Carlo Tramontano in 1501 but remained incomplete following his assassination in 1514. The grounds offer extensive views of the ravine and the surrounding limestone landscape. Archaeological excavations within the park have revealed ancient cisterns and rock-hewn structures dating back to the Neolithic period. The park acts as a green buffer between the historic Sassi districts and the newer residential areas. It provides a vantage point for viewing the Matera cathedral and the valley floor.
The perimeter path on the side facing the Sassi provides the most expansive panoramic view of the historic city.
Wear sturdy walking shoes to navigate the uneven terrain and rocky paths around the castle base.
Carry water during the summer months, as shade is limited in the open areas of the park.
Visit during the golden hour to photograph the Sassi with the afternoon sun hitting the stone buildings.
Do not attempt to climb the exterior walls of the castle or enter cordoned-off excavation areas for safety reasons.
The park area is typically accessible, but access to the interior of the castle is restricted to specific guided tour events or seasonal cultural programs.
