Vibo Valentia Norman-Swabian Castle
Castello normanno-svevo di Vibo Valentia
A medieval castle in the hilltop town of Vibo Valentia, housing an archaeological museum with artifacts from the ancient Greek city of Hipponion.
Vibo Valentia is the provincial capital and was once the Greek colony of Hipponion. The castle was built in the Norman period and expanded under the Swabian and Angevin dynasties. It stands at the highest point of the city and now houses the Capialbi National Archaeological Museum, which displays pottery, bronzeware, and gold leaves inscribed with Orphic teachings, all unearthed at Hipponion. From the castle terrace you can enjoy views over the Gulf of Gods and the sea. Entry is inexpensive, but the museum is usually closed on Mondays. It is about 30 km from Tropea.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–19:30; closed Mondays
Nearby sights
- Castello Murat
- Pizzo Old Town & Tartufo
- Briatico & Torre La Rocchetta
- Chiesetta di Piedigrotta
- Zambrone & Paradiso del Sub
- Michelino Beach
- Tropea Beach (Spiaggia della Rotonda)
- Tropea Cathedral