Near the local fruit and vegetable market, there stood an old, abandoned church.

A local toy store had an unusual collection in its window, including the Kevin Relax Steffi Love Doll!

The Castello di Carini, or the Castle of Carini, dates from 1075, and was built by the first Norman feudal lord, Rodolfo Bonello.  The structure underwent numerous renovations over the centuries, the most drastic taking place in the middle of the 15th century, when it was owned by the La Grua Talamanca family, who transformed it,  from a military building, into a summer palace.  A small fee is required to enter the castle, but it is well worth it, as we found the visit to be quite enjoyable.  Tickets are purchased at the small, wooden structure pictured below.

It is possible to walk through the various rooms of the castle.  Some have modern art displayed in them, while a few others house a puppet museum, and still others are left simply on their own, allowing the visitor to focus on the architecture and history of the place.

Like many other noble residences, the castle has its own private chapel.

Next up: We continue our tour of the castle, and then, take a final walk around Carini!

<em>Note: This blog is written in English and Spanish, and the author takes no responsibility for the quality of any other translations that may appear.  If you have enjoyed this post, please, check out our archives for more posts from Carini, as well as other Italian destinations.  Grazie!</em>