From the sea ascending towards the height, in the municipality of Sant'Ilario dello Ionio (RC), bordering Portigliola, Ardore, and Ciminà, one passes from the Marina to the Center, up to the village of Condojanni, where stands the tower of the ancient castle, on the top of a rocky hill overlooking the Locride. Dating back to the 11th century, it represents one of the rare examples of high medieval architecture in Calabria, a witness to the Norman era.

Initially built as a lookout and refuge for the local population in response to Saracen raids along the Calabrian coasts, the castle of Condojanni underwent various transformations over the centuries. During the Swabian rule, it was expanded and reinforced with the addition of rectangular towers, thus assuming the form and structure that we can still admire today. In the 13th century, the castle became the focal point of the flourishing feud of Condojanni, assuming a central role in the life and dynamics of the surrounding territory. Throughout its history, it passed from one illustrious Sicilian dynasty to another, including the Ruffo di Calabria, the Marullo, and the Carafa princes of Roccella, who contributed to consolidating its prestige and importance.

Today, in an exceptional panoramic position, it is possible to admire only the remains of the central tower of the castle which, with their evocative strength, offer an unmissable immersion in history.