Perched on Monte di Rontana, among the hills of the Vena del Gesso Romagnola, the ruins of the castle are documented as early as the 10th century. Visiting the archaeological site offers an authentic experience, a journey through nature and culture, exploring the history of the Apennines and its people.
Archaeological investigations have uncovered traces of the fortress from the late medieval and Renaissance periods, along with earlier artifacts, allowing researchers to reconstruct the long history of the settlement, from prehistoric times to its abandonment in the 16th century.
From an initial wooden fortification with a rock-cut moat in the early centuries, the site evolved in the 13th century with the construction of a large defensive castle, featuring walls and towers. At the center, a courtyard was dedicated to the productive activities of the castle community, such as metalworking.
This site particularly illustrates the close relationship between the population and gypsum, the main material of the surrounding landscape. The castle was carved directly from gypsum for foundations, moats, steps, and floors of buildings, as well as used as a construction material. Some dwellings were partially excavated into the gypsum banks, as were several burial sites.
The Castle of Rontana is just a few kilometers from Brisighella and about a twenty-minute walk from the Ca' Carnè Visitor Center and Refuge.
Additional notes: Near the castle remains stands a large cross, placed to commemorate the Holy Year in 1901 and restored in 1961.
Timetable: The fortress ruins are always accessible from the outside.
Directions: From Brisighella, follow the panoramic road toward Riolo Terme. At the signs for the Carne Nature Park, take the steep path leading to Rontana.
