A Journey through Time
The first evidence of a fortification on the hill dates back to the 6th-5th centuries B.C., to the time of the Etruscans, when the walls of the ancient city of Cortona were much more extensive. The actual fortress was erected in 1258, during a period of struggles and battles between cities and seignories. Its construction testifies to the strategic importance of Cortona, located in a dominant position over the Valdichiana.
Over the centuries, the fortress underwent several modifications and extensions. Cosimo I de' Medici, in the 16th century, entrusted the famous architects Gabrio Serbelloni and Francesco Laparelli to complete it and make it more modern and efficient. It was during this phase that the Fortezza del Girifalco took its current form, with its characteristic star-shaped plan.
The fortress is an example of Renaissance military architecture. Its mighty walls, made of limestone, are up to three metres thick and are equipped with bastions, towers and gunports. The internal structure of the fortress is on several levels, with rooms that used to house soldiers, officers, storerooms and even a chapel. The fortress was equipped with a state-of-the-art defence system for the time, including cannons, moats and drawbridges.
A safe refuge and a place of culture
Despite being a symbol of military power, the Fortress of the Girifalco has never known war. Over the centuries, it has had various functions: a prison, a refuge during World War II, a military communications base. Today, the Fortress of the Girifalco is a place of culture, open to the public and a venue for events and exhibitions.
An unforgettable experience
Visiting the Fortezza del Girifalco means being immersed in the history, culture and beauty of Tuscany. The fortress is an ideal place for lovers of military history, architecture and breathtaking views. It is possible to visit the fortress independently or with a guided tour.
Opening hours:
From March 1st to March 28th: open from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Saturday and Sunday
From March 29th to June 16th: open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
From June 17th to September 1st: open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
From 2 September to 29 September: open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
From September 30th to November 3rd: open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
From November 4th to February 20th: open from 10:00 to 17:00, Saturday and Sunday
Tickets:
Full - 5€
Reduced - 3€
Website: wwww.fortezzadigirifalco.eng