Rocca San Felice Castle, Rocca San Felice, Italy

The Rocca San Felice Castle was built on a rocky spur by the Lombards to support a defensive strategy against the Byzantines and for surveillance purposes, following the struggles for the possession of the Duchy of Benevento, which was split from the Principality of Salerno after the dispute. Collapses and damage caused by the natural disasters that befell the place have considerably altered the fortress's structure, which has undergone several changes and additions over time. The works initially emphasised its defensive purpose, such as the construction of the southern bastion, and later enhanced its residential purpose, with the construction of the Palatium and a building for residential use. Over time, the 'Rocca' lost both functions, ultimately becoming a simple blacksmith's workshop, until it was gradually abandoned and emptied.

Of the entire fortified area, the following are still visible today: the gateway that permitted access to the structure and which is now located at the entrance of the De Antonellis-Villani Palace on Piazza San Felice; the surrounding walls; and the Donjon (or cylindrical tower), which served as the fulcrum for the entire structure and with which the Castle is still identified. Built in the 12th century with a diameter of ten meters, it was constructed using a technique known as 'a sacco', in which two stone curtains forming the internal and external façades are filled in. The structure had four levels: the first level contained the cistern, still visible today; the second was used as a kitchen, as can be deduced from the presence of the well and the oven/fireplace; and finally, the third and fourth levels housed rooms with residential structures. On the top of the Donjon, there was a roof used as a lookout point, built in such a way as to collect rainwater and convey it to cistern on the first level.

Although it has lost its dual defensive and residential function over the centuries, the Rocca San Felice Castle still stands proud today over the Irpinian village and the splendid Valle d'Ansanto.

References:

sistemairpinia.provincia.avellino.it

Walls of Constantinople

The Walls of Constantinople are a series of defensive stone walls that have surrounded and protected the city of Constantinople (today Istanbul) since its founding as the new capital of the Roman Empire by Constantine the Great. With numerous additions and modifications during their history, they were the last great fortification system of antiquity, and one of the most complex and elaborate systems ever built. They were also the largest and strongest fortification in both the ancient and medieval world.

Initially built by Constantine the Great, the walls surrounded the new city on all sides, protecting it against attack from both sea and land. As the city grew, the famous double line of the Theodosian Walls was built in the 5th century. Although the other sections of the walls were less elaborate, they were, when well-manned, almost impregnable for any medieval besieger.

Filomena Montefusco (10 months ago)
Quite nice and very ancient with breathless landscape

Donny M (2 years ago)
Picturesque hamlet in the heart of Irpinia

Angela Capezzuto (6 years ago)
With the suggestive atmosphere of the medieval village, the re-enactment of various snippets of life in that period, you are carried back in time. Interesting visit!

Pauline Memoli (6 years ago)
A lovely walk up to the Castello and wonderful views - the town is also very attractive and well maintained with a beautiful church. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.

Tommaso Aragona (6 years ago)
Nice view even though the castle itself isn't very appealing

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