Castle of Donoratico, Medieval castle ruins in Donoratico, Italy
The Castle of Donoratico is a medieval ruin with a prominent tower and reinforced walls built on a hilltop along the Tuscan coast. The fortification features multiple layers of stone construction that define the site from top to bottom.
The fortress was first documented in 1176 and served the Della Gherardesca family as their main stronghold until King Alfonso of Aragon destroyed it in 1447. Archaeological findings show the site had been settled since ancient times.
The place takes its name from the Donoratico family who held power here for centuries. Visitors today can see how the medieval builders used stone to create walls that still stand against the coastal weather.
The castle stands on private property of the La Torre estate and can only be viewed from the outside. The best approach is via the SS1 Aurelia and SP16 roads, turning right after about a kilometer.
The southern wall of the main tower retains its original height and clearly shows how medieval builders carefully stacked stones layer by layer. This preserved section offers rare insight into the practical building techniques of that era.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
