Castel di Pietra, Medieval castle ruins in Gavorrano, Italy
Castel di Pietra is a castle ruin on a hilltop near Gavorrano, with remains that include an 11th-century tower, walls with window openings, and a circular defensive structure. The site spreads across the northwestern side of the hill, showing the layout of a medieval fortress.
The fortress came into the hands of the Aldobrandeschi family in 1067 and later passed to the Pannocchieschi family. The latter controlled major salt trade routes that ran through the region.
The place is connected to the story of Pia dei Tolomei from Dante's Divine Comedy, a tragic figure whose death is linked to this fortress. The ruins speak to a time when this site held power in regional affairs.
The site sits on a hilltop and requires a short walk uphill to reach the ruins. Access is best on foot, and it is wise to bring comfortable shoes and water.
Archaeological digs have uncovered evidence of prehistoric settlement in a cave on the hillside. These findings show that the hilltop was continuously inhabited over thousands of years.
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