Rocca Colonna - Ducal Palace of Castelnuovo di Porto

The Ducal Palace of Castelnuovo di Porto, commonly known as "Rocca Colonna", is the result of a transformation over the centuries, passing from a fortified military settlement to a Renaissance palace.

Located on a tuffaceous spur between the valley of the Chiarano ditch and the Mola, it occupies the highest point of the ancient village. The village developed around the castle in concentric circles, maintaining the typical medieval appearance.

La Rocca is an imposing architectural complex, accessible from the main square via two flights of stairs which define the facade together with the two side towers.

The east tower, identified as the ancient keep, represents the oldest nucleus of the fortified settlement, while the west one was built in a set back position to harmonize the facade.

La Rocca was owned by the Colonna family and played a strategic role as an advanced garrison. Over the centuries, it has hosted famous people and has undergone various building transformations.

The chapel of San Silvestro in Castello, linked to the Colonna family, has frescoes dating back to the 12th century and has been recently restored.

In the Renaissance period, Sciarra Colonna completed the transformation of the Rocca into a Renaissance palace, carrying out important works, including the Loggia Pinta, decorated with frescoes depicting virtues, seasons and historical episodes.

The building was inhabited by the Colonna family and has performed various functions over the centuries, including that of the magistrate's court and district prison.

Map: Rocca Colonna - Ducal Palace of Castelnuovo di Porto