Castle of Acquafredda

About

Built at the end of the 12th century, Acquafredda castle’s first owner was Ugolino di Donoratico. Literature fans might recognize the name from Dante’s Inferno. While he was in charge of Pisa, Ugolina let the city deteriorate to the point of starvation and riots, and was ultimately imprisoned with his entire family and left to starve to death. For this, Dante put Ugolino in the lowest circle of Hell, imprisoned in ice with the man who ordered his imprisonment. After Ugolino, the castle passed between various kingdoms and feudal lords, ultimately falling into ruin around the 19th century. Situated on a volcanic outcrop, you have to hike nearly 45 minutes to reach the inner bastion. Along the way, you’ll pass through the boundary wall, which once encircled a village, and the formidable cistern tower that the castle is named for. Once you reach the donjon, you’ll be treated to fantastic views, punctuated by the ruined fortifications.