Our history
Since the late 1970s, the Castello Aragonese d'Ischia has hosted cultural events of undisputed international prestige. Specifically, Gabriele Mattera, part owner of the manor and an artist of rare sensitivity, managed with courage and passionate spirit to restore life and splendour to the Castle by organising exhibitions that feature important Italian and foreign painters. Over time, the events at the Aragonese Castle became a fixed cultural event for those who, including passing tourists and inhabitants of the island, love art. Above all, the exhibitions of Manzù, De Pisis, Morandi, Burri and Picasso at the Immaculate Conception Church are most memorable, which made the Castle an important reference point for all of Southern Italy.In July 2005, in the aftermath of Gabriele Mattera's death, The "Amici di Gabriele Mattera" Association was born, which aims, thanks also to the collaboration and support of Gabriele's many friends in Italy and abroad, to enhance the work of the artist and painter with exhibitions, publications, and events that raise awareness among critics, and to continue organising events of great cultural importance at the Aragonese Castle.
As in the past, therefore, the Castle returned to shine and again became a source of stimuli and active discussion regarding the fields of contemporary art, music, cinema, and architecture.
