The Castle of Castiglione della Pescaia: a journey through history, beauty and views

Castiglione della Pescaia castle at sunset, Maremma, Tuscany.

Introduction

Located on top of the promontory overlooking the charming town of Castiglione della Pescaia, Castiglione's Aragonese Castle represents the hallmark of the town. When one arrives from the pine forest, it is the first thing one glimpses above, often against the light, along with its maritime pines. Its history is rooted in the Middle Ages and reflects the various dominations over the centuries. In this article, we will guide you to discover the history, architecture and curiosities related to this fascinating castle.

History

The castle was born in the 10th century as a simple coastal watchtower, commissioned by the Pisans who dominated the area at the time. Known initially as Pisan Tower, in the next two centuries it was enriched with two more towers and curtain walls. The complex was then enlarged and renovated in the Renaissance period. During the 15th century, Castiglione della Pescaia was briefly under the rule of the Kingdom of Naples, ruled by the Aragonese dynasty. It was during this period that the castle was reinforced and enlarged, taking the shape very close to what we know today. Because of these works, carried out under the control of the Aragonese, the castle also took the name "Aragonese Castle." It underwent further interventions in the following centuries, first with the Lorraine and finally in the early 20th century under the direction of architect Lorenzo Porciatti.

Architecture and views

The architectural style of Castiglione della Pescaia Castle is the result of a fascinating combination of different eras and influences. Its medieval roots are evident in the sturdy Pisan Tower, an imposing structure that testifies to the strategic importance of the place since the 10th century. The other two towers and curtain walls, built in later centuries, reflect the Pisan influence and the evolution of military techniques of the time. Renaissance architecture, instead, Is visible in the building body and perimeter walls, the result of the extension and renovation work carried out during the Medici rule and beyond.

So in addition to having medieval roots and Renaissance influences, it also carries with it the legacy of Aragonese military architecture, which is evident in the solidity of its structures and the efficiency of its fortifications. The combination of these different styles gives the castle a unique charm and makes it a living testimony to the various dominations and historical eras that have characterized the region.

Later interventions under the Lorraines and in the early 20th century also helped define the castle's current appearance, giving it a unique and fascinating character. The summit battlements and decorative elements on the towers and walls testify to the attention paid to the aesthetics and grandeur of the complex over the centuries.

Curiosities

The castle has been featured in numerous historical and legendary episodes. Prominent among these are the siege of 1442, during which the inhabitants of Castiglione They resisted thanks to the miraculous intervention of Our Lady of Grace, whose statue still stands today in the castle chapel. Also, the ghost of Pia de' Tolomei, a 13th-century Sienese noblewoman, hovers within the castle walls, making the place part of Italian literary history thanks to the famous passage in Dante Alighieri's Divine Comedy.

Drone video of Castiglione della Pescaia

How to visit the Castle of Castiglione della Pescaia

The castle is private. Entry is currently impossible except on very rare occasions for events where the owners themselves are involved.

The Castle of Castiglione della Pescaia is a must-see for anyone visiting this beautiful Tuscan town. It is a journey through history and culture that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the fascinating medieval and Renaissance past of the place, while enjoying incredible views of the entire coastline. Unfortunately, at the moment it is not a visitable destination, hoping that it can be in the future.

Other places of interest

If you are interested in further discovering the history and culture of Castiglione della Pescaia, we also recommend visiting other sites of historical and artistic interest in the area, such as the Church of San Giovanni Battista, the Archaeological Museum, and the Diaccia Botrona Nature Reserve. These places, along with the Castle, contribute to making Castiglione della Pescaia a destination rich in charm and history, perfect for a vacation of discovery and relaxation.

Conclusions

If you want to get to know Castiglione della Pescaia and see its beautiful Castle and Medieval Village up close, we recommend you do so in spring/summer to enjoy it to the fullest, taking advantage of the beautiful Maremma coastline. Come visit us at the establishment Bagno Le Cannucce, to eat at our seafood restaurant And enjoy the lovely beach under our umbrellas.