Porta Castellana, Ascoli Piceno

History of Porta Castellana

The history of the village the gate protected is known. Tradition traces the founding of Casalena to Ascoli exiles fleeing the barbarian invasions. Until 1302, when it was already part of the Ascoli county, there are however no documented traces. Later it appears with its own statute and coat of arms, under the jurisdiction of the sindacato (district) of Montadamo.

The village was once a crossroads on the way to Castel di Croce. As the road built over the badlands (calanchi) deteriorated, it was abandoned and was reduced almost to a cluster of ruins.

What to see at Porta Castellana

Beyond the gate opens a covered space of unusual shape, from which the internal streets of the castle start. The wall, slightly battered (sloping), is reinforced near the gate by a small square turret with arrow slits. On the opposite side there is a larger building, probably fortified.

The interior is now almost entirely in ruins. Few buildings remain standing, of some historical importance, mainly along the line of the walls. Other houses were built later in the village below the walls.

How to visit Porta Castellana

The visit is best started from the access ramp, which runs around the remains of the walls and leads in through the gate. The site is abandoned and the interior in ruins, so it is wise to ask about the condition of the area before setting out and to move carefully.

Where Porta Castellana is

The gate is in Casalena, in the northern part of the municipal territory of Ascoli Piceno. Casalena is reached by the only small road that starts from Morignano and crosses the steep valley separating the two villages.

Near Porta Castellana

The village is described on the page devoted to Casalena in Ascoli Piceno. The municipal territory also includes the Castello di Tronzano and the Castello di Montadamo. For the historic center of Ascoli Piceno, see the page things to do in Ascoli Piceno.