Rocca Paolina : info and guided tour

Introduction to Rocca Paolina

Rocca Paolina is an old fortress in Perugia, now known mainly for the underground spaces that remain. Located near Piazza d’Italia, it recalls the city’s defensive past and the strategic role this citadel played in Perugia’s urban history.

Built in the 16th century during the period of papal rule, Rocca Paolina was designed as a powerful military structure. What remains are galleries, vaults, and stone corridors that offer a concrete view of Renaissance fortified architecture, combining defensive rigor with a monumental organization of space.

The site is famous for its underground route, where visitors pass through the remains of the old fortress while discovering fragments of the ancient city integrated into newer structures. This layering of levels makes Rocca Paolina a unique place, at once historical, urban, and almost archaeological.

What stands out most are the vaulted passages, thick walls, and the cool atmosphere of the galleries, which contrast with the modern city above. Rocca Paolina thus attracts visitors curious to understand how Perugia has preserved the trace of a military past that has become a space for strolling and discovery.

Discover Perugia with a private guide

A private guide can help place Rocca Paolina in the history of Perugia and explain the details of its underground structures. By explaining the site’s origins, the layout of the galleries, and their place in the city, they make the visit clearer and richer, without losing the special character of the site.