The Castle of Gorizia, dating back to the 11th century, is the city's ancient heart. Situated on the hill that dominates the city, the hill provides an amazing panoramic view over Gorizia and its surroundings. Today it does not reflect its original aspect; in fact, of the ancient donjon pulled down by the Venetians for defence purposes, only the foundations are visible in the Lanzi courtyard. The castle can be reached through the Porta Leopoldina (Leopold's Gate), built in 1660 in honour of the visit of Emperor Leopold of Habsburg. The Castle reflects the evolution occurred between the 13th and the 16th centuries with the progressive addition of defence structures and buildings. The castle changed owners several times, passing from the counts of Gorizia, Advocates of the Church of Aquileia, to the Habsburg rule, with the short Venetian and Napoleonic periods.
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