Castle of Roccascalegna – between natural spectacle and mystery

History and description

Built between the 10th and 11th centuries on the ruins of a Lombard settlement, the Castle of Roccascalegna belonged to various noble families, including the Angevins and the Aragonese, who fortified it to resist invasions. Despite several expansions, the castle fell into ruin during the 19th century and was abandoned, before being restored in the 1990s. Perched on a sheer rocky cliff and partly carved into it, the fortress consists of the Angevin Tower, the circular tower, arrow slits, battlements, passageways, and a small chapel.

Curiosities

Although it has been used as a set for numerous films, the castle is best known for the legend of the Bloody Baron. According to the tale, after imposing the ius primae noctis, he was killed by a vengeful husband, and since then, the baron’s blood is said to reappear periodically on the tower walls.

Access

The fortress is open to visitors every day, with two different visiting shifts. Admission costs €4–5, with free entry and specific reductions available.

How to reach it

Immersed in nature, the castle can only be reached by car, taking the A14 motorway towards Val di Sangro.

Loved by tourists as a “fantasy castle,” the Castle of Roccascalegna is one of the most scenic in Abruzzo, offering visitors a unique experience of breathtaking views and mysterious legends.

Photo credits: Roccascalegna (CH) (Wikipedia) - Licensed by CC 4.0