Discover Rocca Imperiale: Castle, Alleyways and Cammino Basiliano
Castle and alleyways as the common thread
Rocca Imperiale reveals its character between the dense network of alleyways in the town centre and the Castello Svevo. Narrow alleyways separate blocks of houses, palazzi, churches and small squares; at the same time, they lead to the castle. Their layout is reminiscent of the typical structure of medieval settlements. For your walk, the squares, alleyways and the route to the Castello thus form the defining reference points of the town.
The castle dates back to Frederick II of Hohenstaufen. Between 1220 and 1225, he had a castle built in Rocca Imperiale to control the ancient Via Appia Traiana, which was the only transport link connecting Apulia with Calabria. The historic architecture of the Castello Svevo di Rocca Imperiale also includes the Torre Frangivento. The almond-shaped tower dates from the 15th century and has three casemates.
Museum and sacred sites
The Museo delle Cere is located in the Monastero dei Frati Osservanti. It preserves life-size wax figures of historical figures and reconstructs important events and developments that shaped Rocca Imperiale and the surrounding area. This also includes the presence of Frederick II. The museum thus connects historical figures with the history of the town and its surroundings.
The Church of Santa Maria della Nova was elevated to the status of Santuario Diocesano on 5 March 2010. The Santuario Diocesano Santa Maria della Nova is located on the Colle delle Cesine, four kilometres from the built-up area of Rocca Imperiale.
Hiking between cultural landscapes and far-reaching views
The Rocca Imperiale–Nocara stage of the Cammino Basiliano begins at Piazza Castello and is the opening stage of the long-distance trail. From Piazza Castello, it reaches the Murge di Santa Caterina archaeological area, which is considered a kind of outpost for defending the castle. The stage then leads into the Valle del Torrente Canna. There, the landscape consists of small cultivated plots, olive groves, oak woods and open fields.
Another way to experience the surrounding landscape is offered by the Rocca Imperiale–Montegiordano stage of the Cammino Basiliano. It provides views of the Parco del Pollino and the Golfo di Taranto. The connection between Piazza Castello, the archaeological area and the cultural landscape contrasts with the view of the park and gulf.
Limone di Rocca Imperiale IGP
The local cuisine also has a clear connection to the town. The protected geographical indication Limone di Rocca Imperiale IGP is produced in an area that corresponds to the municipal territory of Rocca Imperiale. The lemon can be tasted fresh or in its natural state and is also used in fine patisserie and gourmet cuisine. A product with a clear regional provenance thus complements the historical and landscape impressions.
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