|
7 km from Tolentino, the Castle of La Rancia is a 14th century reconstruction. It is built in a rectangular plan with its battlements re-inforced by three corner towers, one of which stands guard over the main entrance. The battlements are V-shaped to show loyalty to the Vatican. Access to the main gate used to be by drawbridge, which was subsequently replaced by a permanent brick bridge. According to tradition, there is a medieval tunnel running from the castle to the Basilica of St. Nicholas in Tolentino. Over the years, the castle has accommodated a number of distinguished guests, among them Pope Pius VI, who stayed there during his return from Vienna in 1782. On the occasion of his visit, a triumphal arch (still standing today) was constructed at the beginning of the road that leads to the castle. |
|
