Several archaeological sites, including remains of a Hellenistic settlement, can be found in the area.

[1] The first fortification to be built on Monte Sant'Angelo was a watchtower, which was constructed between 1583 and 1585 on the orders of Viceroy Marcantonio Colonna.

[2] In 1615, Hernando Petigno, the general commander of the Royal Cavalry of Sicily and Military Governor of Syracuse, began building a fort on the site, incorporating the tower as the fort's keep.

Construction was halted, but it was resumed in 1636 and completed in 1640 under the direction of Serpione Cottone, Marquis d'Altamura.

The fort is built in the Baroque style, and it includes a central courtyard, barracks, stables and warehouses.