The ruins of the Castle of the Counts of Aquino, located on the summit of Roccasecca, stand out for their grandeur and rich history. Built in 994 by Abbot Mansone of Montecassino for protection against the Lombards, the castle offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Liri Valley. Once a crucial defensive bulwark, this medieval fortress is now in ruins but still retains significant architectural elements. During Aragonese rule in the late 15th century, the castle was fortified and new defensive structures were added, including a barbican at the base of the main tower.
The Castle of the Counts of Aquino was not only of military importance, but also housed the Chapel built on the ruins of the room where St. Thomas Aquinas was born. The castle played a key role in the defense of the Via Latina. With the advancement of war technology and the use of more sophisticated firearms, the castle lost its military function and became the residence of local feudal lords. Today, what remains of the castle are majestic remains that include an imposing three-story plaza, fragments of perimeter walls with turrets of different shapes (quadrangular, cylindrical and semicircular) and ruins of Aragonese manufacture. These ruins not only tell the story of medieval fortifications, but are also a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Roccasecca, birthplace of one of the greatest Doctors of the Church, St. Thomas Aquinas.
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Roccasecca, Province of Frosinone, Italy - Web
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Always open - What to see
Birthplace os St Thomas Aquinas
