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Rocca di Ornaro Alto in Torricella in Sabina: a castle that changed hands
Rocca di Ornaro Alto, standing in the hamlet of Torricella in Sabina, is a castle of medieval origin that has changed owners several times from the 11th century to the present day. It is located in the heart of the Sabina area, near Rieti, and is now privately owned. The Way of St Francis passes close to the fortress.
A tower that grew over time
The complex was constructed around the 11th century as a defensive structure. In the 15th century a base was added to the original tower and an additional floor was built on top.
Who owned the castle
The first owners were the Brancaleoni family, followed by the Orsini. In 1604, upon the death of Enrico Orsini, the castle passed on to the Apostolic Chamber. It remained under ecclesiastical control for nearly two centuries, until 1779, when the Chamber granted its use to the local families Lucantoni, Costantini, Maoli, Salzeri, and Lattanzio. The arrangement came to an end with the Lattanzio family, and the castle was sold. Since then, it has remained in private hands.
