9 Must-See Castles and Fortresses in Abruzzo

Embark on a Medieval Adventure Through Abruzzo’s Best Fortresses

Abruzzo’s rolling hills and rugged coastline are dotted with centuries‐old fortifications that beckon the curious traveler. From mountaintop strongholds to seaside bastions, the must-see castles and fortresses in Abruzzo offer a journey through medieval lore, panoramic vistas, and hidden corners off the beaten path.

In this guide, you’ll find practical tips on how to reach each site, where they’re located, and what makes them unforgettable visits, suitable for families with kids, solo explorers, and history buffs.

Quick List: Must-See Castles and Fortresses in Abruzzo

Castello di Roccacalascio (Castle of Rocca Calascio)
Castello di Roccascalegna (Castle of Roccascalegna)
Castello Aragonese di Ortona (Aragonese Castle of Ortona)
Castello Piccolomini di Celano (Piccolomini Castle of Celano)
Castello della Monica (Monica Castle)
Castello Caldora di Pacentro (Caldora Castle of Pacentro)
Castello di Casoli (Castle of Casoli)
Il Forte Spagnolo (The Spanish Fortress)
Fortezza di Civitella del Tronto (Fortress of Civitella del Tronto)

9 Must-See Castles and Fortresses in Abruzzo

1. Castello di Roccacalascio (Castle of Rocca Calascio)

Why it’s a must-see: Standing at 1,460 m, this is the highest fortress in the Apennines, offering sweeping views of Campo Imperatore and the Gran Sasso massif.
What you’ll feel: A bracing alpine breeze, solitude among windswept stone walls, and the thrill of stepping into a movie-set landscape.
Location: Calascio (AQ)
How to get there: From L’Aquila take the SP17 toward Calascio. Park in the village center and follow a 20-minute uphill trail. In winter, sturdy boots and layers are essential.
Highlights: Four cylindrical towers, the remains of a chapel, and cinematic panoramas featured in Ladyhawke.

2. Castello di Roccascalegna (Castle of Roccascalegna)

Why it’s a must-see: Perched dramatically on a rocky spur, this 10th-century fortress seems to grow straight from the cliff.
What you’ll feel: The thrill of medieval intrigue, echoing halls, and a sense of discovery as you explore hidden chambers.
Location: Roccascalegna (CH)
Getting there: Limited parking near the town square. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk through the historic old town and up the hill to the very top of the castle.
Highlights: A drawbridge entrance, secret tunnels, and spectacular views over the Sangro Valley.

3. Castello Aragonese di Ortona (Aragonese Castle of Ortona)

Why it’s a must-see: Built in 1452 atop earlier fortifications, this cliff-side castle commands Adriatic views and tells a WWII survival tale after Allied bombings.
What you’ll feel: The salt-tinged sea breeze, the romance of ancient ramparts, and poignant reminders of modern conflict.
Location: Ortona (CH)
Getting there: From Pescara, take the motorway toward Ortona. There are free and paid street parking spots right outside the castle. The castle is also short stroll from the town’s main train station.
Highlights: Sweeping terraces, interpretive WWII exhibits, and sunset vistas over the Gulf of Ortona.

4. Castello Piccolomini di Celano (Piccolomini Castle of Celano)

Why it’s a must-see: A 14th–15th-century jewel blending fortress and Renaissance palace, home to fine art and archaeology collections.
What you’ll feel: A blend of martial strength and noble sophistication, with frescoed halls and trimmed merlons.
Location: Celano (AQ)
Getting there: You must find parking in the squares or street parking in the center of town, there is no dedicated parking lot for castle visitors.
Highlights: Museo di Arte Sacra della Marsica, Collezione Torlonia, and a panoramic terrace.

5. Castello della Monica (Monica Castle)

Why it’s a must-see: A Moorish-style folly built in the 19th century by a wealthy Teramo family, it’s a whimsical contrast to Abruzzo’s medieval keeps.
What you’ll feel: Delight at its exotic towers and crenellations, and a touch of fairytale charm.
Location: Teramo (TE)
Getting there: From Teramo’s center, it’s doable to walk (~15 minutes) to the castle. Parking is available on adjacent side streets.
Highlights: Decorative turrets, arched loggias, and interior frescoes reflecting 19th-century eclectic tastes.

6. Castello Caldora di Pacentro (Caldora Castle of Pacentro)

Why it’s a must-see: A 14th-century stronghold rebuilt by the Caldora family, offering clifftop views above the Peligna Valley.
What you’ll feel: The weight of feudal history, with sturdy battlements and the scent of wild herbs carried on mountain air.
Location: Pacentro (AQ)
Getting there: From Sulmona, follow the signs towards Pacentro. Park in Piazza Umberto I and climb the stone steps to the entrance, or park in this dirt lot just off of Via della Montagna and walk down to the castle.
Highlights: Circular watchtowers, castle chapel ruins, and sweeping views toward the Maiella massif.

7. Castello di Casoli (Castle of Casoli)

Why it’s a must-see: A 12th-century fortress later modified by the Cantelmo family, standing above a quaint medieval town.
What you’ll feel: Stepping back into high-middle-ages Italy, with narrow courtyard and echoing ramparts.
Location: Casoli (CH)
Getting there: After the town’s main square, follow signs uphill to the castle entrance. Beware, the roads are tight and narrow so you should avoid driving all the way up if you’re in an excessively large car.
Highlights: Panoramic terrace, restored keep, and rotating cultural exhibits throughout the year.

8. Il Forte Spagnolo (The Spanish Fortress of L’Aquila)

Why it’s a must-see: Built in 1534 by the Spanish viceroy Don Pedro de Toledo, this impressive pentagonal citadel is one of Italy’s finest examples of Renaissance military engineering – an emblem of L’Aquila’s storied past.
What you’ll feel: Standing beneath its massive stone walls, you’ll sense the power of Habsburg Spain and the strategic mastery that shaped Abruzzo’s history.
Location: L’Aquila (AQ)
Getting there: From L’Aquila train station, it’s a 35 minute walk to the castle or you can opt for a taxi. Ample parking is available near the castle’s entrance if you’re driving.
Highlights: Five bastioned towers, vaulted underground magazines, spacious parade ground, and year-round cultural events hosted within its walls.

9. Fortezza di Civitella del Tronto (Fortress of Civitella del Tronto)

Why it’s a must-see: Italy’s last Bourbon redoubt (1861), this vast fortress offers commanding views of Abruzzo and neighboring Marche.
What you’ll feel: The enormity of military ambition, echoing fortifications, and a sense of standing at Italy’s historic crossroads.
Location: Civitella del Tronto (TE)
Getting there: There is a parking lot at the fortress base, then a gentle uphill walk or shuttle bus in peak season.
Highlights: Moats, casemates, the Bourbon Gate, and an immersive museum detailing the siege of 1861.

FAQ: Visiting Castles in Abruzzo

What are the must-see castles and fortresses in Abruzzo?

This guide covers the top nine must-see castles and fortresses in Abruzzo, from the heights of Castello di Roccacalascio to the expansive Fortezza di Civitella del Tronto.

How much time should I allocate?

Plan 1–3 hours per site: shorter visits for coastal forts like Ortona, half-day for sprawling sites like Civitella, and active 2 or 3-hour treks for mountain keeps.

Are these destinations family-friendly?

Yes – many have easy pathways (Piccolomini, Spanish Fortress) and open courtyards. Mountaintop castles require sturdy footwear but reward with space to roam.

What’s the best way to travel between them?

Renting a car is ideal for flexibility. Abruzzo’s SS and SP roads link most castles; Trains only serve certain areas. Local buses connect principal towns in high season.

When is the best time to visit these castles and fortresses in Abruzzo?

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds. Summer is lively but hotter, while winter visits to Roccacalascio and Pacentro sparkle with frost.

Final Thoughts

Exploring the must-see castles and fortresses in Abruzzo is more than sightseeing, it’s stepping into stories carved in stone. Whether you’re chasing dramatic mountaintop views at Rocca Calascio, wandering secret passages in Roccascalegna, or soaking up seaside breezes at Ortona, each site promises an unforgettable visit.