Top 19 Castles around Cortona

**Why recommend it?** Because it's a simple and pleasant way to discover the most evocative side of **Passignano sul Trasimeno**. The historic center, listed among *The most beautiful villages in Italy*, is well-maintained, rich in history, and continuously offers characteristic views to photograph. It's a walk I recommend **at any time of the day**: even during the hottest summer hours, the alleys of the center offer several shaded stretches, allowing you to walk more peacefully. And then there's everything you need to make the walk even more enjoyable: along the path, you'll find **bars, restaurants, and pastry shops**, perfect for a break, whether sweet or savory. In short, a route without haste, to be experienced by strolling and letting curiosity guide you. 🌿🏘️

Montecchio Vesponi Castle dominates the Val di Chio from a hill over 360 meters above sea level. With its crenellated walls, towers, and an imposing 30-meter-high square tower, it is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Tuscany and can be recognized from afar throughout the valley. Contested for centuries by Arezzo and Florence for its strategic position on the road to Cortona, it became a Florentine stronghold after the Battle of Campaldino in 1289. In the 14th century, it was also home to the famous mercenary captain John Hawkwood. Today, the castle comes back to life with guided tours, events, and reenactments that evoke the atmosphere of the Middle Ages.

Rocca di Passignano (Castle of Passignano) - Passignano sul Trasimeno The Rocca di Passignano (Castle of Passignano) is located inside the village, in an elevated position above the town, which later expanded to the lakeshore. According to some sources, Passignano could mean "place of the pass," referring to the existence of a Roman military structure that served to control a "pass" between the present-day regions of Umbria and Tuscany. Nothing remains of this possible structure today. Currently, the castle consists of ruins of medieval structures: square walls, a half-ruined tower, and the northern part of the castle with a triangular tower. Furthermore, a series of alleys wind through this part of the historic center, once surrounded by walls, giving an idea of what the street layout within the castle might have looked like. The oldest core probably dates back to the 5th or 6th century; The square walls, however, were built between 820 and 850, when the castle belonged to the Marquises of Tuscany. In 1187, the property became the property of the canons of the Cathedral of San Lorenzo in Perugia. In the 13th century, the castle underwent significant renovations, transforming it into a true fortress, an outpost, and defensive bastion of the Perugian territory. Text / Source: Umbria Tourism.it https://www.umbriatourism.it/de/-/la-rocca-passignano-de

The Rocca del Leone is the medieval fortress with an irregular pentagonal structure built starting from the thirteenth century. This is the main monument of Castiglione del Lago and is definitely worth a visit.

check hours as they are open only certain days

we go up towards the hill

Not only the beach promenade is a must-see in Passignano sul Trasimeno, but also the old town with its many small, romantic alleys is a must-see. Here you will find many small restaurants and shops, some of which are hidden, where you can buy beautiful souvenirs or delicacies.

The Girifalco Fortress is an imposing defensive structure that dominates the city of Cortona from above. Built in the 16th century to protect Cortona from external attacks, it today offers a breathtaking view of the Valdichiana. It's a perfect place for a scenic walk, take incredible photos and immerse yourself in history. The fortress also hosts exhibitions and cultural events, making it a lively and interesting place to visit.