Orsini-Colonna Castle, or Castello Orsini-Colonna as it is known in its native Italian, stands as a majestic testament to the rich and turbulent history of Avezzano, a charming town nestled in the Abruzzo region of Italy. This fortress, with its imposing stone walls and storied past, offers visitors a captivating journey through time, from medieval conflicts to Renaissance grandeur and beyond.
The origins of Orsini-Colonna Castle date back to the 12th century when a medieval tower was erected by Gentile di Palearia, the lord of the Avezzano fief. This initial fortification was a simple structure, but it played a crucial role in the defense and control of the region. In the 14th century, the castle was expanded around the remnants of this ancient tower, evolving into a more formidable stronghold.
The castle's history is marked by conflict and conquest. In the latter half of the 14th century, Francesco del Balzo, Duke of Andria, besieged the castle as the locals supported his rival, Philip, Prince of Taranto. The attack, led by the mercenary captain Ambrogio Visconti and his 12,000 raiders, resulted in the violent sack of Avezzano, leaving a lasting scar on the town's history.
In 1490, Gentile Virginio Orsini, a prominent member of the Orsini family, undertook a significant renovation of the castle. He transformed it into a Renaissance-style fortification, a project likely designed by the military engineer Francesco di Giorgio Martini. The castle was conceived as a fortilizio, a fortress meant to deter any rebellious inclinations among the Avezzano populace. The inscription on the ogival portal, Ad exitum seditiosis Avejani, serves as a stern warning against potential uprisings.
The 16th century brought further changes to the castle under the stewardship of Marcantonio Colonna, a key figure in the Colonna family. In 1546, he expanded and enhanced the castle, transforming it into a fortified palace. The Colonna family, who became the feudal lords of much of the Marsica region from 1497 onwards, left a lasting imprint on the castle and the surrounding area.
The Colonna era was marked by both cultural and political influence. The castle's underground chambers and various rooms were used for theatrical performances, a testament to the family's patronage of the arts. In 1722, Fabrizio II Colonna and his wife, Caterina Zefirina Salviati, were welcomed with grand ceremonies and celebrations by the Avezzano vassals, demonstrating the close ties between the lords and the local community.
The castle remained in the hands of the Colonna family until the abolition of feudal rights in 1806. During this period, the castle's theater was frequently used, with a probable side entrance in the moat, generously made available to the citizens by the Colonna family.
Following the end of feudalism, the castle passed to the Lante Della Rovere family, who maintained it until 1905. At that point, Francesco Spina, the deputy mayor of Avezzano, acquired the castle. He converted part of it into a hotel and leased the southern side to the Regia Scuola Normale Matilde di Savoja, while other sections housed the Avezzano court. The Renaissance garden, known as the Orto di San Francesco, was used as a horse stable.
The castle's fortunes took a dramatic turn with the devastating Marsica earthquake of 1915. The quake caused significant damage, destroying much of the upper structure and the 16th-century additions by the Colonna family. Despite partial restoration efforts in the 1960s and 1970s, the castle remained largely in ruins.
In the 1990s, a more comprehensive restoration project was undertaken, led by architect Alessandro Del Bufalo. This project included the creation of an auditorium within a self-supporting internal structure, breathing new life into the historic site.
Today, Orsini-Colonna Castle stands as a striking example of medieval and Renaissance architecture. The facade is characterized by its two distinct levels, separated by a redondone (molding) that runs along the curtain wall and towers. The central rectangular portal is adorned with two rows of small pyramids and flanked by two bas-relief figures of bears, one wielding a sword, symbolizing the Orsini family. At the center, the Colonna family crest, surrounded by the collar of the Order of the Golden Fleece, proudly stands.
The second level of the facade features two rows of windows, with a central window above the portal. The southern side boasts the highest concentration of windows and, at the top, a loggia. The dry moat encircles the castle, with the portal connected to the mainland by a drawbridge. The left side of the facade retains much of its guelfa crenellation and machicolations, although many were lost in the 1915 earthquake.
Orsini-Colonna Castle is not just a relic of the past; it is a vibrant cultural hub. The castle hosts art exhibitions, theatrical performances, and film screenings, providing a dynamic space for cultural engagement. The restoration efforts have ensured that the castle remains a focal point of Avezzano's cultural life, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
In conclusion, Orsini-Colonna Castle is a remarkable monument that embodies the rich history and architectural heritage of Avezzano. Its walls tell tales of medieval battles, Renaissance splendor, and modern revival. A visit to this historic site offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the enduring legacy of the Orsini and Colonna families.
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