Mustaccioli
Olio d'Oliva E.V. 100 cl
Sciana
The Fulcignano Castle, now in ruins, is an important historical testimony of the rivalry between Galatone and the ancient hamlet. Its description in Galateo’s “Liber de Situ Japygiae” highlights the rectangular structure with turrets and a decorated portal. This castle is not only an architectural monument, but also represents a chapter in local history, marked by conflicts and migrations of the inhabitants. The abandonment of the hamlet by the inhabitants and their move to Galatone have helped shape the history of the place. Today, the ruins evoke a nostalgic charm, recalling the stories of a tumultuous past.
The first news about the Fulcignano hamlet dates back to 1192, with the assignment of the fief to Maurizio Falcone. The subsequent demographic increase between the 13th and 14th centuries contributed to the clashes with Galatone, as documented by Galateo. The castle, accessible via a path that leads to the ancient portal, was surrounded by a moat. Its quadrangular plan measures between 49 and 75 meters, with walls about 8 meters high and 2.6 thick. The corner towers vary between 7.55 and 8.40 meters. The entrance portal, although remodeled, retains original elements. Having become a national monument in 1967, it was purchased by the Municipality of Galatone in 2011, marking an important step for its historical and cultural valorization.
The legend of Fulcignano Castle tells of an assault by marauders who, despite their determination, failed to conquer the fortress. In an extreme gesture, they kidnapped and killed the Lord's son, hanging his limbs from a carob tree. The mother, destroyed by grief, invoked the devil, promising that anyone who attempted to take over the castle would have to offer a child to Lucifer. The time it took the devil to devour the child would be granted to find the treasure.
Over the centuries, only one man dared to face the challenge, bringing a cat disguised as a baby. But the meow revealed the deception and Lucifer, furious, unleashed a storm that forced the man to flee. From that day on, no one dared to search for the treasure, and legend has shrouded the castle in an aura of mystery and terror, making it a symbol of impossible challenges and warnings against greed.
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