Pierosara, hamlet of Genga (AN) - Church of San Sebastiano Martire - Marche
- Tuttitaly
- Oct 26, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: 12 hours ago
It was an important medieval castle which had vast sovereignty over the territory and which, according to legend, took its last name from a beautiful love story... #tuttitaly
Pierosara is an ancient medieval castle located in the Frasassi Natural Park in the Marche region. Built on a hill at 394 meters above sea level, it overlooks the Esino River Gorge.
Origins
The origins of Pierosara, also known as Castrum Petrosum, date back to the Roman era when the inhabitants of Tuficum, one of the four cities in the upper Esino valley, built the first defensive and lookout structures on the hill. Later, the Lombards used it as a border point in the Duchy of Spoleto.
The Castle of Pierosara was of great importance and sovereignty in the surrounding territory. Even today, you can admire the gates of the two walls and the defense tower. Its strategic position allowed for the control of the Sentino and Esino valleys.
Legend
The history of Pierosara is also linked to a sad legend. It is said that the Count of Rovellone, the feudal lord of Rotorscio Castle, fell in love with a young woman named Sara, who lived in Castel Petroso.
Despite Sara being promised to another castle lord named Piero, the count decided to kidnap her. The locals noticed the abduction and closed the castle gates, starting a violent battle against the count's followers. During the clash, the count killed Sara, whom he held in his arms, and later also killed Piero. Castel Petroso took on the name Pierosara in memory of this tragic event.
Places of worship
The Church of San Sebastiano Martire, built in the 15th century by Olivetan monks, is worth a visit. It is still active as a parish and part of the Diocese of Fabriano-Matelica.
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