Rocchette

Rocchette is a small coastal village located in the Tuscany region of central Italy, administratively serving as a frazione of the comune of Castiglione della Pescaia within the province of Grosseto. Situated at the foot of Poggio Peroni on the promontory of Punta Ala, it lies amidst the pine forests of Roccamare along the Tyrrhenian Sea coast. While its permanent population is minimal, the area transforms during the summer months as a popular tourist destination, particularly for visitors from Northern Europe drawn to its scenic beaches and temperate climate.

The site holds significant historical roots dating back to the Middle Ages when it was known as Campo Albo, originally featuring a castle and a parish church that no longer exists. The primary architectural landmark is the Fort of Rocchette, which began as a 12th-century watchtower called Rocca di Campo Albo before being restructured by the Medici family in the 16th century. Additional historical structures include the 18th-century Chapel of Madonna del Carmine, built to replace the lost medieval parish church, and the nearby Tower of Cala Galera. This 13th-century watchtower was initially constructed by the Republic of Pisa and later renovated by the Medici in 1568 to strengthen coastal defenses.

Today, Rocchette remains a picturesque location where medieval military architecture blends with natural beauty. Although the original village of Campo Albo has largely vanished, the surviving fortifications stand as testaments to the region's strategic importance during centuries of coastal conflict. The area continues to function primarily as a seasonal resort town, preserving its historical identity through these restored towers and chapels while catering to modern tourism along the Maremma coast.