Verruca Fortress

History

Its role in Pisan defence

According to the sources, the fortress was a crucial point for the Republic of Pisa, in almost continuous war with Florence. It was the core of a system of fortifications that included the castles of Caprona, Vicopisano and Buti. Communications with the other outposts and with the city were carried out with sheets, banners, smoke, fires or artillery shots, following a code that made it possible to signal the arrival of enemy troops.

From the Middle Ages to 1503

The site was occupied by a fortification as early as 780, but the fortress proper was built in the 13th century. It remained an active military structure until the definitive fall of Pisa in 1503. Four corner towers were added, two large ones to the east and two smaller ones to the west. In 1509 the fortress was restructured: the two polygonal bastions are attributed to Antonio da Sangallo, the large cylindrical tower to Luca del Caprina. Having lost its frontier function, it was later abandoned.

From the 20th century to today

In 1904 the first stone of a monumental cross was laid, but work stopped because of a ban by the Soprintendenza, which wanted to preserve the look of the ancient fortress. The mountain was hit by major fires in September 2009 and September 2018. Since November 2009 the association Compagnia di Calci has had on loan for use the part of the fortress that falls within the municipality of Calci, and looks after cleaning and securing it.

What to see

The structure, in stone and brick, stands on a rocky spur. The foundations and bastions are still solid, while the upper parts have almost all collapsed. Some underground rooms and the central chapel, of which the four walls survive, remain almost intact. The plan is pentagonal. Four corners are fortified: two with round towers, one with a polygonal pointed bastion, one with a slight glacis. The only entrance is on the east side, with a steep staircase cut into the rock. Inside opens the parade ground, with the remains of a rectangular church in blocks of Verrucano stone and the opening of a large cistern.

Where it is

The fortress is on Monte Pisano (Monte Verruca), in the municipal territory of Calci, in the province of Pisa, Tuscany. The starting point and the walking route are to be confirmed with the Comune or local associations.

Practical information

Tickets and where to buy them

No ticket is indicated in the sources consulted: the site is an open-air ruin. To be confirmed.

Opening days and hours

To be confirmed. As it is an open-air site in a wooded area, it is best to check access conditions beforehand.

Where to eat

To be confirmed.

Parking and services

To be confirmed. No on-site services are recorded.

Accessibility and other information

To be confirmed. Access is on foot and the entrance has a steep staircase cut into the rock, so the place is not suitable for those with mobility difficulties. Part of the fortress is on loan to the Compagnia di Calci: for information on visits and volunteering, contact the association.

Opening hours, prices and services change often: before your visit, call the official number or check the castle’s website. Last checked: November 2026.

Sources: Wikipedia – Rocca della Verruca.