The Fortress 'La Rocca' - protection for the city of Cesena is set upon Garampo hill in wonderful gardens of tall trees and greenery.

The fortress has been occupied since the origin of the city. Over the years it has been modified and to this day is known as the Malatesta Fortress. It was the original lodging place of Federico Barbarossa and Frederic II until it was abandoned in a terribe invasion by the Brittons in 1377. During 1380-1480 the fortress was rebuilt by the new Lord Malatesta where it became an important centre of power and key point of defence for the city. During the Napoleonic age it underwent substantial modifications where it was turned into a prison and has only recently (1970) been restored as an important archetectonic and military monument.

The walk up to the Fortress has a number of choices as it is surrounded in lovely, shaded green gardens, some short and some long, one of which is a memorial park or simply take a walk up the cobbled hill (Nuti stairs) from the city's main square Piazza del Popular and take in the lovely accommodations built here in the vicinity of La Rocca. It's no wonder couples have their wedding photographs taken here on this walkway. (Please note that the walk is not for the short of breath)

At the fortress entrance the walls are 12cm thick which then leads in to a large court. Here you will find the 'Keep' the tall and square tower which was the old prison area, and the 'Palatium Tower' small and rectangular which is now the home of the Historical Museum of Agriculture.

You can access the walkways which completely surround the fortress and are set in a pentagonal shape. You will see spiral stairways and the battlements where you can walk at your leisure also taking in the wonderful city panoramic views that reach out to the sea. A must for any photographer.

Admission:
The Fortress is open from Tuesday to Saturday 9am-12pm and 4pm-7pm, Sundays 10-1pm and 4-7pm. Admission is 3.50 euros and 1.50 euros (60+yrs and children 6-14yrs) Free entry for children under 3 and disabled and companion. English speaking guides are available but must be booked in advance.