Rocca di Borgia, Renaissance fortress in Camerino, Italy

The Rocca di Borgia is a 16th-century fortress in Camerino, built on the south-west side of the city. Its cylindrical towers and massive keep are examples of early Renaissance military architecture. Part of the Franciscan convent of San Pietro in Muralto, founded in the 1300s, still stands on the inner esplanade.

Construction of the fortress began in 1503 under Cesare Borgia, with architect Ludovico Clodio designing it as an instrument of control over the city. Later, under Pope Clement VII, it served as a secure location for treasures from the Loreto sanctuary during periods of danger.

Part of the Franciscan convent of San Pietro in Muralto, founded in the 1300s, still stands on the fortress's inner esplanade. The castle's name is also rendered Rocca Borgesca in Italian, after the Borgia family. The gardens of the Rocca were closed for renovation work and have since reopened to the public.

The site is surrounded by maintained grounds that make it pleasant to explore the fortress from the outside and enjoy the views. When visiting, allow time to examine the surrounding pathways and the various memorial monuments placed throughout the area.

Inside the castle grounds, part of the 14th-century Franciscan convent of San Pietro in Muralto still stands on the inner esplanade, a remnant predating the Borgia fortress. The original rock drop separating the castle from Camerino was filled in during the 17th century, and the gardens were recently reopened after restoration.