The castle of Rocca Calascio (L'Aquila), and the medieval village below, stand in the heart of the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga national park, in Abruzzo. The manor is famous for being among the highest in Italy as well as one of the most evocative. The fortress, dating back to the Norman period, was commissioned by the king Ruggero d'Altavilla, in 1140. Over the centuries it underwent numerous transformations and expansions, becoming an important strategic control point for the communication routes between the Adriatic Sea and the Tyrrhenian side.
Imposing and majestic
The castle of Rocca Calascio is characterized by an imposing and majestic structure, in white stone. It consists of a central keep, a crenellated wall up to 30 meters high, and four circular corner towers that soar towards the sky. From the highest point of the manor you can enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains and the valley below, which extends to the sea.
The village, located south-west of the castle, can be divided into two parts: one adjacent to the fortress, the other more recent and located further downstream. The fortress, which stands at 1.460 meters above sea level, was the possession of several noble families and underwent various interventions, especially in the late 1400s. Damaged by the earthquake that destroyed L'Aquila in 1703, it was restored between 1986 and 1989. it is accessed via a wooden bridge.
Movie set
The castle of Rocca Calascio is always open and free. All around, visitors can observe the remains of ancient walls and houses, witnesses of the place's turbulent past. Over the following centuries, the fortress was abandoned and fell into ruin, until it became a mysterious and evocative place, ideal for film shooting. Due to its spectacular location and its uniqueness, it has been chosen as a set for numerous films and TV series, including "Ladyhawke" and "The Name of The rose". More recently also for the Rai series "Padre Pio" and for some scenes from the film "The American".
Do not miss
Near the castle of Rocca Calascio there is the church of the Madonna della Pietà, which adds a further touch of beauty to the surrounding landscape. The building, with an octagonal shape, is said to have been built as a sign of thanks after a victory against a band of bandits. Visiting his castle is an experience not to be missed. Walking among its ancient walls, admiring the breathtaking view and breathing in the magical atmosphere of this enchanted place is a journey through time that will leave you breathless.
(Photo: Castello di Rocca Calascio, Facebook Page)
