Perched atop a hill in the center of Longiano, the Castello Malatestiano—also known as Rocca Malatestiana—offers a remarkable journey through Italian history and art. First erected around the 7th to 8th centuries and documented by 1059, this fortress served as a residence for the Malatesta family, lords of Rimini, between 1290 and 1463. Pope Leo X later granted it to Count Guido Rangoni in 1519, who restructured the palace and commissioned interior frescoes.
As you explore, you will discover the 19th-century refurbished Sala dell'Arengo, featuring historic local figures painted by Giovanni Canepa and Girolamo Bellani. Since 1989, the castle has belonged to the commune and houses the Fondazione Tito Balestra. Art lovers should visit to view an extraordinary collection of modern and contemporary works.
You can admire pieces originally gathered by Balestra, including creations by Chagall, Goya, Matisse, Kokoschka, Twombly, Morandi, De Pisis, and Balestra himself, alongside an extensive gallery of works by artists such as Enrico Baj, Felice Casorati, and Alberto Sughi.
What to see at Castello Malatestiano, Longiano
- Historic hill-top castle dating back to the 7th-8th centuries
- Former residence of the Malatesta family, lords of Rimini
- Frescoed interiors and the 19th-century Sala dell'Arengo
- Home to the Fondazione Tito Balestra's modern and contemporary art
- Works by Chagall, Goya, Matisse, Twombly, and Morandi
Visiting tips
Take time to examine the Sala dell'Arengo to view the 19th-century paintings of historical figures from Longiano by artists Giovanni Canepa and Girolamo Bellani.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Castello Malatestiano, Longiano is easy to reach on Cesena’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Biblioteca Malatestiana and Cesena Cathedral. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Cesena travel guide.
See the full Cesena travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.