Rocca Maggiore (Major Fortress), Assisi (must see)

Perched high above the town, the Major Fortress has a history dating back to 1173, when it was first fortified by Archbishop Christian of Mainz on behalf of Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa. The structure we see today, with its imposing towers, battlements, and turrets, owes much of its appearance to Cardinal Albornoz. Arriving to assert papal authority in 1367, he undertook the task of rebuilding the earlier imperial stronghold that had been damaged by repeated clashes with Perugia. The massive fort served as a critical defensive bastion protecting Assisi from regional invasions throughout the Middle Ages.

Ascend the winding stone paths of the Street of the Fortress toward the summit, pausing at the grassy terrain near the entrance to take in the imposing limestone curtain walls and square corner towers. Despite the steep incline, rest assured that the climb is well worth the effort. More than just the fortress, the lush surroundings offer an ideal spot for a picnic, and the panoramic views stretch across Assisi, Perugia, and the Spoleto Valley, all the way to Montefalco and the Martani mountains.

Now to get into the castle itself, cross the stone bridge into the inner courtyard, enter the main keep, and climb the narrow spiral staircases to access the upper battlements and the central tower. Walk along the covered wall walk leading to the western polygonal tower to look out through narrow arrow slits, then step out onto the highest tower gallery for a 360-degree vista spanning Mount Subasio, Assisi's rooftops, and the entire Umbrian valley below.