Dating back to the 11th century, it owes its name to the fact that it hosted the poet Ludovico Ariosto from 1552 to 1525, who held the position of governor of the Este province of Garfagnana during this period.
Architecturally it presents itself with the characteristic shape of medieval buildings: small towers at the corners and a square in the center which also served as a prison.
During the thirteenth century the structure of the fortress was modified and in particular during the period of Lucca’s domination it underwent numerous changes, among which we remember the enlargement of the entire urban walls, operated by Castruccio Castracani degli Antelminelli, and the construction of the imposing tower located in the center of the Rocca, enhanced by the civic clock, thanks to Paolo Guinigi.
In 1675 the terrace was built overlooking the square at the monumental arch leading to the city center.
Following the damage caused during the Second World War, the fortress was restored and modified in the structure. It is currently the site of cultural events and houses the Archaeological Museum, where you can find evidence of the prehistoric, Ligurian-Apuan and Etruscan periods in Garfagnana.
