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Rocca Ariostesca of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana

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Historical Buildings

The fortress hosted Ludovico Ariosto when he was governor of the Garfagnana

The Rocca Ariostesca is a medieval fortification that dominates the main square of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana. Built in the 11th century, it underwent modifications and extensions between the 13th and 14th centuries, including the construction of the civic tower clock which was commissioned by Paolo Guinigi. Its imposing mass, with a trapezoid shape, includes two small internal courtyards. 

The fortress is called “Ariostesca” because from 1522 to 1525 the renowned poet Ludovico Ariosto lived there. At that time – under the Estensi family – he was governor of Garfagnana and the Rocca with its tower was the headquarter of the local government.

The Rocca Ariostesca
The Rocca Ariostesca - Credit: Hpschaefer

Municipal seat until the Second World War, in 1944 the Rocca was seriously damaged under the heavy bombings and was subsequently restored. After having been a military fortification and, later, seat of public offices, today the Rocca Ariostesca houses the Archaeological Museum and other events, and is still the beating heart of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana.

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