La Rocca di Assisi is one of the most evocative places in Assisi. Find out why and when you should make a visit.

Among the places of interest you should see during your visit to Assisi, there is certainly La Rocca Maggiore, one of the most evocative places in the city of Saint Francis.

Rocca Maggiore sits on the hill overlooking the city of Assisi and can be reached on foot. From here it is possible to enjoy a breath-taking panorama and admire, as well Assisi itself, the valle umbra (Umbrian Valley), which spans from Perugia to Spoleto.

The first information about this fortified structure dates back to 1174. In that year, the city was occupied by the archbishop Cristiano di Magonza (Cristian of Mainz), on the orders of Federico Barbarossa (Frederick Barbarossa).
La Rocca, which probably already existed from the time of the Lombards, was re-built on pre-existing remains.
In 1198 the inhabitants of Assisi destroyed most of the structure during a popular uprising to prevent it falling into the hands of a papal governor.

The Fortress was re-built in 1365, thanks to Cardinal Egidio Albornoz, who was appointed to reinforcing the castles that were to defend the Papal State. Through restructuration work, he managed to create an extremely effective system of defence.
For this reason, over the years, many tried to conquer this fortified structure, in order to ensure control of the flatlands between Perugia and Foligno.

The structure of La Rocca was modified several times over the following centuries. In 1535, Pope Paul III had a circular bastion built, thus making one last important modification.
The fortress was finally abandoned during the 1600s (source: Visit-Assisi).

Today, La Rocca is visited by many tourists. Thanks to recent restoration, it is possible to admire the large halls adorned with decorations inspired by mediaeval life, which create the atmosphere that reigned in those times.
The panorama that can be admired from this height is also well worth the visit.

The more recent Rocca Minore is located on the top of the hill to the right of Rocca Maggiore. Also known as Cassero di Sant’Antonio or Rocchicciola, it is connected to Rocca Maggiore by walls, which could once be walked on and, which it is said, hide secret passages (source: Visit-Assisi).

Why and when to visit La Rocca di Assisi

After having immersed yourself in the spirituality that pervades the entire city of Assisi, a visit to La Rocca cannot be ignored. The best way to get there is on foot; follow the path that begins in the city so that you can admire the beautiful views the Umbrian countryside has to offer. The walk is easy for everyone and once you reach the top you can take in the majestic view of the panorama and of La Rocca itself.

It is always a great idea to visit La Rocca, whether in summer or winter. However, we recommend you choose a day when the weather is good, so that you can fully enjoy the amazing panorama that you will find once you reach the top of the hill.

Hotel Il Duomo: the perfect place to stay to visit La Rocca di Assisi

Hotel Il Duomo, in the centre of Assisi, is the perfect place to stay in order to visit the city and, obviously, La Rocca. In fact, the hotel is located along the Scalinata di San Lorenzo (Saint Lawrence’s Steps), which leads directly to Rocca Maggiore.

Il Duomo is definitely the most suitable choice if you want to stay in a new structure that has all the comforts you need and which, above all, is in the centre of the city. Visiting Assisi on foot from the hotel’s location is simple and convenient and, if you travel by car, you can park free of charge or at an additional cost at approx. 100 metres from the hotel.
Breakfast is served in the breakfast room, while a half-board or full-board service is offered by the nearby restaurant of Hotel la Rocca.

Do not leave anything to chance, make your visit to Assisi unforgettable by choosing the most comfortable hotel for your stay and do not forget to visit La Rocca, one of the most evocative places of the city of Saint Francis.