Rocca Costanza

Travelers visiting the Marche region should be aware that Rocca Costanza is located in Pesaro, not Ancona. Although both cities are in the same region, they are distinct locations. The fortress is Pesaro’s most significant fortification, built between 1474 and 1483 under the commission of Costanzo Sforza. The project was initially led by engineer Giorgio Marchesi da Settignano and later possibly by Luciano Laurana. The structure features a quadrilateral layout with cylindrical corner towers and spiral staircases, designed as a perfect military defense system.

Construction was delayed by the plague. In 1500, Cesare Borgia occupied the city and flooded the moat with Adriatic water, possibly advised by Leonardo da Vinci. After the Sforza rule was restored in 1503, Giovanni Sforza completed the moat and restored the residences. In 1513, the fortress was sold to Francesco Maria I Della Rovere. It underwent further restoration in 1657 after the Duchy was devolved to the Papal States. The building served as a prison from 1864 until 1989.

Currently, the site is closed to the public due to ongoing work. Specific opening hours and admission fees are not provided as access is restricted. Visitors are advised to check the official Comune di Pesaro website for updates on when the fortress will reopen. Exploring Pesaro’s verified attractions ensures a meaningful engagement with the region’s heritage. The combination of Renaissance architecture, historical significance, and coastal beauty makes Pesaro a unique destination in the Marche region. For those seeking specific local knowledge, engaging with local guides is recommended to uncover hidden gems and lesser-known sites within the town. The experience of walking through Pesaro provides a profound insight into the cultural identity of the Adriatic coast.