Iconic landmark of Petritoli, the “Tre Archi” (Three Arches) welcome you with their elegant neo-Gothic silhouette. Today, they stand as a scenic monument, but their history dates back to the 15th century, when the Petrania Gate – the village’s main fortification – stood in their place.
At that time, two strong circular bastions guarded the entrance, connected by an embattled walkway for archers. On the façade were two toniére – embrasures for cannons – one vertical, for long-range fire, and one horizontal, for striking at close range. This defensive system enabled Petritoli to withstand numerous assaults.
In 1872, the medieval gate was torn down to make the inner square brighter and more open. In its place, the present Three Arches, in Gothic style, were built transforming the ancient fortification into a true architectural jewel.
