Rocca Calascio

Rocca Calascio is a stone fortress near Calascio in Italy, sitting at 1,460 meters (4,790 feet) above sea level in the Apennines. The structure consists of a central round tower surrounded by four cylindrical corner towers, all built from pale limestone.

The structure began in the 10th century as a military watchtower to control trade routes between the interior and the coast. In the 13th century, four corner towers and reinforced defensive walls were added.

The octagonal church of Santa Maria della Pietà sits below the walls and was raised in gratitude after a time of plague. Shepherds once moved regularly through the area and used the valley as grazing ground for their flocks.

A walking path of about 20 minutes leads from the parking area in the village up to the fortress and suits most visitors. The site stays open all year, though snow and wind can make the climb harder in winter.

The building uses larger stone blocks at the base that become smaller toward the top to distribute weight and maintain stability on steep terrain. Several films were shot here, including scenes from