Hidden among the folds of the Abruzzo Apennines, the Rocca di Civitella del Tronto stands imposing, a silent witness to centuries of history and compelling human events. Located in the province of Teramo, this ancient fortress is one of the most evocative and fascinating monuments of central Italy, full of charm and mystery.
This fortress is one of the most monumental and impressive military engineering works ever made in Italy and with its over 500 meters in length and 25,000 square meters of surface. The importance of Civitella lay in the decision taken, around the end of the thirteenth century, by the Angevins - rulers of southern Italy - and by the papalini, to place here the border between the Kingdom of Naples and the papal state. This position, combined with the harsh nature of the territory, made the country over time, one of the most strategically important points for the control of northern borders and customs.
A Baluard of Defense
The Fort, built on a rocky spur of travertine, dominates the Salinello valley, on the ancient border between the Papal States and the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. In the Renaissance it presented itself as a typical fortified citadel with five towers, mighty walls with patrol walkways and two bastions to protect the tweenth-century Eastern Gate on the Knight's Square. Despite the recent restoration works, the typical characters of the Spanish fortress are still perfectly visible, with a long ramp that reaches the citadel, the Governor's Palace of 1574, the church of S. Giacomo, from 1604, and around the accommodation for the military, warehouses and cisterns. On the eastern side the large Piazza d'Armi and the quartering of the French troops with a typical square plan.
The Glorious and Tragic Pages of History
Over the centuries, the Rocca di Civitella del Tronto has been the scene of numerous historical events that have marked its fate and amplified its legend. During the War of the Spanish Succession, the fortress was the last bulwark of the Bourbons against Savoy troops. The garrison surrendered only on March 20, 1861, after the first National Parliament was inaugurated in Turin, 3 days earlier. This historic episode has given the Rocca di Civitella del Tronto a reputation for heroic resistance and a symbol of national pride. Also to erase the historical memory of our country, the Savoy army began the work of dismantling the structure which, abandoned for more than 100 years, has returned to light after long restoration work, begun in the seventies and completed in 1983, under the super vision of the BAASS Superintendence of the Eagle. The Fortress, now equipped with a modern and efficient visit system, houses the Museum of Weapons.
A Journey through Time between Walls and Bastions
Today, the Rocca di Civitella del Tronto is open to visitors who wish to explore its evocative surroundings and immerse themselves in its fascinating history. Through a suggestive path within the walls, visitors can admire the ancient halls, panoramic bastions and prisons, breathing the atmosphere of a distant era.
Cultural Events and Initiatives
The Rocca di Civitella del Tronto also hosts cultural events and events that animate its ancient walls and renew its link with the local community and visitors. Between concerts, theatrical performances and art exhibitions, the fortress transforms into a vibrant cultural center that celebrates its history and timeless beauty.
A Treasure to Preserve and Enhance
The Rocca di Civitella del Tronto represents a cultural heritage of inestimable value for Abruzzo and for the whole of Italy, a place full of history, charm and suggestion that deserves to be preserved and valued for future generations. Through the commitment of local institutions and the support of visitors, this architectural wonder will continue to tell its millennial history and enchant those who will have the privilege of crossing its ancient doors.
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