The castle as it is today was built by
Matthew Bonnellus in the 12th century. It was later modified by the
Chiaramontes in the 14th century, and by other rulers until the 17th century. The castle is a large structure built of white stone, having an irregular plan. It has walls with V-shaped
battlements, towers, a moat and a courtyard. The interior consists of a maze of rooms and stairways. The most notable room within the castle is the
Sala della Congiura, also known as the Conspiracy Hall. In 1160, some Norman barons met in this room to plot against
William I of Sicily, but the rebellion failed. Parts of the castle collapsed in an earthquake in 1923. The castle was inhabited by descendants of the Dukes of Caccamo until it was purchased by the
Region of Sicily in October 1963. By this time, the castle was in ruins. Restoration work funded by the Region of Sicily began in 1974. ==Present day==