Key Information
Castle of Rocca Calascio
| Type | Castle |
| Construction | About 1000 CE |
| Builder | Ruggero II d’Altavilla |
| Made From | Limestone |
Learning Point
- Sitting atop of a mountain overlooking the surrounding land, the Castle of Rocca Calascio is one of the most picturesque in Italy. It was built as a fortified watchtower, and later expanded to protect the village that was built around it. It was later used simply as a lookout location as the development of gunpowder changed the use of castles.
Project
- Draw a dramatic picture of the ruins of the Castle of Rocca Calascio.
- Overview

Location
| Location | Calasico, L’Aquila, Abruzzo, Italy |
Fun Facts
- The original castle was built by Norman adventurers from France.
- It was expanded by Count of Celano Antonio Piccolomini when walls were built around the surrounding houses to protect them.
- Earthquakes in 1463 and 1703 caused some damage to the structure.
- In the 20th century work was done to repair it so as to maintain it.
Past Lessons
| 108 | January 11, 2024 | (North America) |