The well-preserved Drena Castle ruins stands on the rock overlooking the deep gorge of the Salagoni River. Built in the 12th century, Drena was probably erected over a prehistoric village. During the Middle Ages, the castle became an important stronghold to control the road connecting Trento and Lake Garda. Unassailable from the flames, the castle is defended by two rows of walls and has been constructed in a dominating position over a gorge - rendering it impregnable to the techniques in use at the time. The castle is mostly Romanesque, but includes a number of Gothic features and 16th century structures.
Frequently contended, in 1703 Drena castle was destroyed by French troops led by General Vendome as well as practically all the castles in the area.
Recently refurbished, Castel Drena can be visited throughout the year, and uses to host numerous cultural events, as well as a permanent exhibition. Overlooking the complex is the 25 metres high fourteenth-century tower, the top of which affords a view over the evocative Marocche stone quarry.
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.