Castello di Gressa

Castello di Gressa is a fortress from the 10th century with two distinct wall systems: an outer wall with an irregular polygonal shape and an inner octagonal wall standing about 16 feet (5 meters) high. Sandstone and limestone walls enclose residential buildings, a church, and two water cisterns that served the residents' daily needs.

Bishop Elemperto ordered the castle's construction between the 10th and early 11th centuries while leading the Arezzo diocese from 986 to 1010. Its founding reflects a period when the church used fortified settlements to strengthen its control over the surrounding countryside.

The Church of San Jacopo at the center reveals how religious life shaped daily routines for those living here. Residential quarters surrounding the chapel show this served as a true community hub where people made their homes and gathered for worship.

The castle sits along the road connecting Bibbiena to the sanctuary at La Verna, with directional signs starting from the Tripoli district to guide your way. Wear sturdy footwear since the approach involves walking through hilly terrain, and prepare for a moderately paced hike through the countryside.

During World War II, German forces stationed observation posts within the castle ruins to monitor the Archiano valley below. This military chapter remains part of the site's layered history, visible in the structural details of the fortification.