Strategically located on a pass that connects the eastern plateau of
Fucino with the valley of the
Sagittario, Ortona dei Marsi has very ancient origins dating back to the Italic city of Milonia. The first historical records concerning the current town date back to the 12th century and mention its belonging to the
Counts of Celano. Later, the fief passed to the Cantelmo family in the 15th century and to Francescantonio Paolini in 1666, eventually becoming property of the Massimi family in the 18th century. Already in decline at the beginning of the 20th century, it did not suffer further serious damage following the
1915 Avezzano earthquake. The original structure of the castle is in a state of ruin with only the tower in good condition. == Architecture ==