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Castle · Assis, Úmbria
Rocca Maggiore
Medieval fortress on the hill above Assis, with a tower, ramparts and views over the Vale da Úmbria, from Perúgia to Spoleto.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Rocca Maggiore
Rocca Maggiore occupies the top of the hill that dominates Assis. The first records of the castle date from 1174, when the city was taken by the imperial troops of Frederick Barbarossa. According to tradition, the young Frederick II, future emperor, spent part of his childhood there.
In 1198 the inhabitants of Assis revolted and destroyed the fortress. It was rebuilt in 1365 by Cardinal Egidio Albornoz, the pope's envoy sent to retake control of the region's cities, and later enlarged by other lords and popes in the 15th and 16th centuries, with a polygonal tower and a long fortified passageway.
The visit covers the courtyard, the halls, the internal staircases and the ramparts along the walls. From the top you can see all of Assis, with the Basilica di San Francesco, and the Vale da Úmbria, from Perúgia to Spoleto, as well as the Monte Subasio behind.
The walls that descend from the Rocca connect to the medieval wall that still encircles the town. The climb, via the streets behind the cathedral or the Porta Perlici, is short but steep.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour, including the climb.
Best time
In the late afternoon, when the light hits the valley and the basilica. On windy days, the top of the fortress can be cold.
How to get there
On foot, from the Piazza San Rufino, up the Via della Rocca, in about 10 to 15 minutes. In season there's usually a minibus to the Rocca; check.
Tip
Wear comfortable footwear: the climb is steep and there are narrow staircases inside the fortress. Check the opening hours, which change with the season.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Rocca Maggiore
Is it worth climbing the Rocca Maggiore?
Yes, for the views of Assis and the Vale da Úmbria and for the route inside the medieval fortress.
Is the climb difficult?
It's short but steep, with slopes and steps. Inside the fortress there are narrow stairways.
How long does the visit take?
About 1 hour, including the walk up.