In 1173, Assisi was occupied by the Germans. It is then that a castle is built above this Italian city, on the slopes of Mount “Subasio” of the “Apennine” mountain range. It would serve as a fort to protect a future emperor. This castle is known as “Rocca Maggiore” (The Rock). The heir and future Roman emperor, Fredrik II, was just an infant when during a civil revolt of the town of Assisi in 1198, his entourage left the castle taking the child. During this revolt, the “Rocca Maggiore” suffered considerable damage.
The castle was rebuilt in 1367 and in the fifteenth century the twelve-sided tower was built. The fortress of great military value protected Assisi and the valley of “Tescio”, seen from afar. The round tower at the main entrance of “Rocca Maggiore” was added by Pope Paul III.
Although the climb to “Rocca Maggiore” is a very steep one, the views that can be enjoyed from the castle towers are a great reward. Images of the city of Assisi, including the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, can be viewed from “the Rock”.
