Rocca di Ravaldino

The Rocca di Ravaldino, also known as the Rocca di Caterina Sforza, stands as a monumental testament to the rich and tumultuous history of Forlì, a city in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. This formidable citadel, with its robust walls and intricate fortifications, has witnessed centuries of power struggles, architectural transformations, and historical events that have shaped its unique character.

The Historical Evolution of Rocca di Ravaldino

The origins of Rocca di Ravaldino trace back to the High Middle Ages. Initially built as a modest fortification, it underwent significant restorations and enhancements in the 14th century under the direction of the Ordelaffi family and Cardinal Egidio Albornoz. The 15th century saw further expansions, transforming it into a complex fortress that served both as a defensive stronghold and a symbol of power.

The name Ravaldino is derived from an earlier fortification called Bonzanino, likely a rudimentary fortress near the gate of the same name. Between 1360 and 1371, the fortification was reinforced with the construction of a small castle, forming the nucleus of the present structure. Pino III Ordelaffi commissioned the architect Giorgio Marchesi Fiorentino to design the fortifications, many of which remain intact to this day.

The Architectural Grandeur

By 1481, a castle and later the citadel were constructed under the order of Girolamo Riario, the new lord of Forlì. The citadel, designed by the same architect, featured various structural elements, including the Cotogni-Ravelin and the Cesena-Ravelin on either side. These additions created a multifaceted complex surrounded by an intricate system of moats, bridges, and walls, enhancing its defensive capabilities.

In 1496, Caterina Sforza, the widow of Girolamo Riario and regent for their son Ottaviano, commissioned the construction of a third ravelin and a citadel on the ruins of the 14th-century fortress. This construction led to the partial demolition of the Palazzo Comunale to repurpose its materials for the new citadel.

The Decline of Military Significance

As artillery technology advanced and siege techniques evolved, the Rocca di Ravaldino gradually lost its strategic defensive importance. By the early 16th century, it began transitioning into a prison, a role it continues to serve in part today. Among its notable prisoners was Astolfo Guiderocchi, one of the first inmates in the early 16th century.

The city prison was officially established within the castle's walls at the end of the 19th century, and it remains a significant part of the structure. Despite its transformation, the Rocca di Ravaldino retains its imposing architectural presence, with a rectangular layout, low round towers, and a stout keep with a square base.

Exploring the Fortress

The current appearance of the Rocca di Ravaldino is largely the result of the 15th-century expansions by Pino III Ordelaffi. The fortress features a citadel with two towers located in the northeastern part of the city, some distance from the main castle. In the 15th century, the citadel was surrounded by a deep and wide moat, remnants of which are still visible today. The moat, unlike those in other cities, was often filled with water due to groundwater seepage, adding to its defensive capabilities.

The Imposing Keep

The keep of the Rocca di Ravaldino, with its square base, consists of three above-ground floors and a basement. The basement served as a storage area and provided access to an additional underground storage space beneath the Palatium. The keep had a single entrance connected by a spiral staircase that linked all the floors. Ventilation was ensured by an opening in the entrance hall adjacent to the keep. Today, the basements are largely flooded, a problem that existed even in the 15th century, as noted by the chronicler Cobelli.

The 14th-Century Fortress

Historical records of the 14th-century fortress are sparse, but it is known that the earliest documentation of a city fortification dates back to 1253. This document, preserved in the Libro Biscia, describes a fortress in the Borgo Bonzanino area, which has since vanished except for this record. The fortification was likely a fortified palace rather than a castle or fortress, dominating the Bonzanino quarter, which no longer exists in the city's history.

In 1371, Anglic Grimoard described two small castles in Forlì, one of which he referred to as Roccha Ravaldini, situated towards the mountains and housing a castellan and 15 families. This description provides an indirect indication of the castle's size, suggesting a medium-sized fortress. Further details about the castle emerged in the 15th century, with Giovanni di Mastro Pedrino, the city's historian, providing more comprehensive accounts.

The 15th-Century Expansion

By the early 15th century, the Rocca di Ravaldino was still predominantly the 14th-century structure with minimal modifications. However, the powerful rulers of Forlì decided to expand it significantly. Pino III Ordelaffi ordered the extensive enlargement of the castle, resulting in the structure we see today. Caterina Sforza made only minor alterations to the castle but added the fortified citadel.

The expansion work, led by the architect Mastro Giorgio Fiorentino, began on June 10, 1471. After the fall of the Ordelaffis on June 14, 1481, the construction site came under the control of the Riarios. The old castle remained in use until 1483, the year Girolamo Riario stationed the first garrison in the new fortress.

The Rocca di Ravaldino stands as a captivating historical landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the past through its impressive architecture and storied walls. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply seeking a unique cultural experience, the Rocca di Ravaldino is a must-visit destination in Forlì.