 Introduzione
On the cliffs to the northeast of Anacapri, perched on one of the smaller masses of Monte Solaro is the foundation's of this ruined castle. Almost clinging to the side of the cliff above Villa San Michele, standing at around 400 meters above sea level. It dates to the late 10th century, when Capri was ruled by the ancient maritime republic of Amalfi.
 History
Castello Barbarossa is named after the admiral of the Turkish fleet, Khair-Eddin, or Barbarossa (Redbeard), who stormed and took the castle in 1535, much of the original layout has been changed over the centuries. The time of its construction is still matter of debate, but is considered to be some time between the eleventh and thirteenth century.
The Castle of Barbarossa is part of the Villa San Michele property, currently owned by the Swedish Consulate. The observatory was then founded in 1956, by the Swedish Ornithological Society in cooperation with San Michele Foundation. The aim was to study the bird migration at a site half-way between the winter quarter in tropical Africa and breeding areas in Sweden and around the Baltic Sea. This area was once premium bird hunting territory, until the practice was finally forbidden following the persistent complaints of Axel Munthe and the physician's campaigns to abolish the shooting of migratory birds.
 Location
Address: Axel Munthe Foundation, Anacapri, Italy.
 Whats to see
From Via Orlandi one has a good view of the walls of the fortress, and the two towers built on the side facing the town which was the more easily attacked. The side facing Capri had the natural defense of the sheer cliff edge. Today there are still the remains of an apsed chapel, with barrel ceiling, and two small rooms with bell tower.
The WWF periodically organizes guided visits on Thursday afternoons from May to October (call the foundation to reserve a place) of the Castle of Barbarossa and nature trails through the surrounding countryside, in an area where the vegetation is particularly drought resistant. In spring eufhorbia, heather, myrtle, broom, and arbutus bloom, whilst during the winter months one can find daffodils, anemones and honeysuckle in flower.
 Useful information
Telephone: +39 081 8371401
 Utili
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