Rocca Nuova (Castruccio Fortress)

Rocca Nuova, also known as the Castruccio Fortress, occupies the western end of the medieval village of Serravalle Pistoiese. Built after the siege of 1302, it became a Lucchese stronghold facing Florence and was later associated with the condottiero Castruccio Castracani.

The surviving complex preserves substantial defensive walls, towers, traces of internal walkways and a large rainwater cistern. Its wedge-shaped plan follows the ridge above the Valdinievole, making the ruins rewarding both for their military architecture and for the broad views over the surrounding hills.

The site is reached through the steep lanes of Serravalle’s historic centre. Wear comfortable shoes and check the official local tourism website before travelling, particularly when events or temporary access restrictions are scheduled.

Sources
Visit Serravalle: Rocca Nuova
Visit Tuscany: Castruccio Fortress
Italian Ministry of Culture catalogue
Image: Mongolo1984, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons