CORTONA | The historical and famous palaces

The Medicean Fortress of Girifalco

Fortezze del Girifalco

The Medicean fortress called Girifalco is the building that overlooks the city of Cortona, because it is placed on the top of the hill. It was built supposedly in sixth or fifth century AD. The shape of the building is a trapezoid, and it has got four large bastions. The first historical references of the castle in Cortona, were written in 1258. Unfortunately, the fortress was raided many times during the years, especially during the war against Arezzo. In 1411 together with all the city, were sold to the Republic of Florence, and they started the restoration from 1527. The first thing they did is to connect the fortress with the urban walls. In 1766 it was given unarmed to the city of Cortona, and it was used as the city jail. Then during the Second World War, it was used as a refuge for 250 daughters of Italian abroad and as strategic place both for allied troops and German soldiers. In 1959 and 1969 the fortress has gone through many restorations that make it more accessible to the visitors. In 2010 one bastion of the fortress, called Santa Maria Nuova, was recovered and it was installed also a lift to improve the accessibility and allow a new used of the building, and to make it suitable for everyone. Nowadays the fortress hosts temporary exhibitions. From the top of the main tower of the fortress, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city of Cortona and the entire Valdichiana, and from here you can see a spectacular and unforgettable sunset. 
Below you can find the direct link to the website, where you can find all the useful informations.

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Fortress website