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La Rocca

Castell’Azzara‘s castle sits in the heart of the town – in via Fratelli Bandiera.

Built in the 13th century, the castle has seen many a reconstruction, and unfortunately reflects little of its 13th century self.

Today it is private property. However, one of its three towers, the clock tower (below) can still be seen rising from the south-east corner of the castle.

Admittedly, the castle almost looks like an ordinary house now, but it did have quite an illustrious past.

The Aldobrandeschi brothers bickered over who would commissioned it in the 13th century. The victor was decided over a game of dice, and if that’s not a great way to decide the fate of grand castles, I don’t know what is.

After the Aldobrandeschi, the Baschi di Orvieto moved in, followed by Sforza family in the 15th century. It was after the Sforza moved out that La Rocca was subdivided and sold privately.

photo: Matteo Vinattieri via Wikipedia