The Fortress was built by the will of Pope Eugene III at the end of the 12th century and kept its defensive role for almost four centuries that is until (halfway through the 16th century) Pope Paolo III Farnese ordered it to be demolished. As of that time, the Fortress was used as a quarry for building materials. After the destruction of the Fortress, the structure was gradually buried throughout the centuries and was brought to life again by recent archaeological excavations, together with several findings belonging to the owners of the castle (Orsini, Annibaldi, and Colonna families).

A permanent exhibition is part of future plans to increase the value of the site, together with a multimedia “parcoculturale” (cultural centre) and organized tourist events on a medieval theme.