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Sforza Cesarini Castle in Frasso Sabino: a Medieval Fortress Transformed into a Noble Residence
Castello Sforza Cesarini dominates the village of Frasso Sabino, perched 480 metres above sea level in the Sabini Mountains. The building was originally a defensive fortress in the 13th century, when the territory was contested between the Abbey of Farfa and the free communes of Sabina. The fortress controlled the Farfa valley and communication routes in the direction of Rieti. In the 15th century it passed on to the Orsini family, who converted it into a noble palace, maintaining the towers and outer walls.
The Renaissance Transformation
In 1560 the castle was purchased by the Sforza Cesarini family, who completed the conversion from fortress to residence. They opened windows on the façade, built the arcaded inner courtyard and redid the living quarters with coffered ceilings and monumental fireplaces. The corner towers remained intact, as did the central keep. The castle was kept by the Sforza Cesarini family until the 20th century, leaving its coats of arms and inscriptions on the walls.
What Can Be Seen Today
The castle is privately owned, and not open to visitors. The structure is visible from the village: the Renaissance façade with rusticated portal, the circular towers, the square keep rising above the roofs. Frasso Sabino preserves its medieval layout, with narrow alleyways and stone houses. From the village there are fine views of the Farfa valley and the mountains as far as Terminillo.
