Rocca Calascio is a medieval fortification located in the Abruzzo Apennines, in the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park. Here is an in-depth look at its history, salient facts and the families who had an interest in it:

History and Construction.

• Foundation: Rocca Calascio was built around 1140 at the behest of Roger II of Altavilla, King of Sicily, as part of a defensive system designed to protect the territories and trade routes of the Kingdom of Sicily.
• Strategic Location: The fortress is located at an altitude of 1460 meters above sea level, making it the highest fortification in Italy. Its location allowed control of the valleys below and crucial communication routes.

Architecture

• Structure: The original fortification included a central square tower surrounded by walls. In the 15th century, the fortress was expanded with the construction of four cylindrical corner towers, giving it its present appearance.
• Materials: Constructed mainly of local limestone, the fortress blends perfectly with its surroundings.

Historical Events and Wars.

• Middle Ages: During the Middle Ages, Rocca Calascio was a military post of great strategic importance. It was used for sighting and defense against raids by enemy armies and brigands.
• Wars between feudal lords: Over the centuries, the fortress was fought over by several noble families, including the Orsini and the Colonna, two of the most powerful families in central Italy.
• Earthquake of 1703: The fortress suffered severe damage during the earthquake that struck the central Apennines in 1703, leading to its gradual abandonment.

Noble Families and Interests.

• D’Altavilla: The fortress was initially built at the behest of Roger II of Altavilla and remained under the control of the Norman dynasty until the mid-12th century.
• Orsini: In the 14th century, the Rocca came under the control of the Orsini family, which expanded its structures and improved its defenses.
• Medici: Later, the fortress passed to the Medici family of Florence, who held vast estates in Abruzzo and made it one of their fortified residences.

Cultural Significance and Recognitions.

• Historical Heritage: Today, Rocca Calascio is considered one of the most striking medieval castles in Italy and is part of Abruzzo’s cultural heritage.
• Cinema: The fortress has been used as a location for several films, including the famous “Ladyhawke” (1985) and “The Name of the Rose” (1986).
• Recognitions: In 2019, Rocca Calascio was included in the list of the 15 most beautiful castles in the world by “National Geographic” magazine.

Tourist Aspects.

• Accessibility: The fortress is accessible on foot via scenic paths that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
• Church of Santa Maria della Pietà: Near the fortress is the Church of Santa Maria della Pietà, a small religious building built in the 17th century, which adds further charm to the site.

Rocca Calascio represents a historical and architectural treasure that continues to fascinate visitors from all over the world with its beauty and imposing presence in the heart of the Abruzzo Apennines.