Caldora-Cantelmo Castle

Caldora-Cantelmo Castle is a fortress in Pacentro with three square towers built from fitted stone blocks and rounded bastions positioned on Monte Morrone above the Peligna Valley. The trapezoid base and varied construction elements show how the structure was expanded and modified over time.

The fortress was built in the 10th century and changed hands from the Berald family through the lords of Valva to the Caldora-Cantelmo family and later to the Colonna and Barberini houses. It became municipal property in 1957.

The castle represents military architecture evolution through centuries, displaying different construction phases from medieval fortification to Renaissance defensive structures.

The castle is reached by paths climbing from Pacentro up the hillside, and visitors should be prepared for steep walking. The tallest tower offers views over the valley, and interior spaces are partly accessible, though care should be taken as the structure is quite old.

The castle was part of a network of seven fortresses guarding the Peligna Valley, and they signaled to each other across the mountains. This defensive system made the region hard to attack and controlled all trade routes through the hills.