Rocca dei Rettori

Archaeological excavations held during the 1998 restoration have proven that the area was used since prehistoric times: findings include a necropolis from the (7th-6th century BC), surmounted by Samnite tombs.

Starting from 771, during the rule of Duke Arechis II of Benevento, the monastery was united to a castle or fortified palace (Castrum vetus), which was enlarged around the 11th century.

In 1321 Pope John XXII asked the governor of the city, William of Balaeto, to restore the building as a residence for the papal rectors.

It is composed of two main bodies: the Big Tower (Torrione), built by the Lombards, is the only visible remain of their original fortress, although it has been restored several times, until in the 15th century it obtained the current appearance (and is thus known as Castrum novum, "New Castle").

The other main body of the fortress is the Palazzo dei Governatori Pontifici ("Palace of the Papal Rectors", or governors.

[1] This edifice has the main entrance on the eastern side, with a staircase leading to a rear garden which is at an upper level than the nearby road.