A proper green lung of Todi, Parco della Rocca, 411metres above sea level, is among the highest spots of the city. The fortress was built in 1373 by Cardinal Pablo Albornoz and commissioned by Pope Gregory XI to control the town of Todi, just reconquered by the Papal States. In 1385, the Rocca was destroyed by the inhabitants themselves and then refurbished ten years later.
In 1495, the fortress underwent Sixtus IV’s siege who tested the military skills of Giuliano della Rovere, his nephew and future Pope Julius II. The fort was completely demolished in 1503, when St. Fortunato and St. Maria della Consolazione were built with the stones of the same.
Currently, only the Mastio (dungeon) remains of the whole structure, together with some counterforts, placed on one among the highest spots of the small urban park: provided with a playground, the green area is suitable for picnics and walks. Walking along the walls of St. Fortunato convent, you can reach a panoramic viewpoint. On the right, via Melsungen – renowned as “la passeggiata” (the walk) – begins. From there you can enjoy an amazing view of the whole underlying valley.