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Castles of Northwest/Central Italy

This section will include castles in the regions of Val D'Aosta, Piemonte, Lombardia, and Liguria.

Val d'Aosta:
In extreme northwestern Italy, this region embraces old trade and travel routes that are thousands of years old.  Because of this, There are many impressive castles in this region.  We have visited a number of them, and hope to be able to provide more content about this region soon.
 
Fenis
Castles of Val D'Aosta

Val D'Aosta is full of incredible castles, from hilltop ruins, to beautifully-restored fortresses.  As we visit more of them, and update our photos, we will share more about these amazing places.

Fenis Castle, dating back to the 13th Century, was lovingly restored a number of years ago, to the peak of its beauty.  With its wonderful spaces, frescos, and period furnishings, it is well worth a visit.

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Guided tours are conducted in Italian and French.  Possibly English tours are available, as well.

Piemonte:


 

There are many amazing castles in Piemonte.  We will add photos as soon as we have them.

Lombardia

Sirmione, on an island in the south end of Lake 

garda, is best know for its walls, which extend into the lake.  It has good lake and village views from the ramparts.  The castle spaces are unfurnished and minimal.

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Sirmione is also part of a charming town.  We enjoy visiting off season, as it can be quite crowded with tourists.

Liguria
Noli

Castello di Monte Ursino or Noli castle dominates the mountain above Noli, with its walls reaching down to embrace this lovely village, one of the Borghi Piu Belli d'Italia, or most beautiful villages of  Italy.

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The castle, begun in the year 1004, offers impressive views in many directions.  It is not furnished or as elaborate as other castles, but worth a visit, it you are in the area.

Savona
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The enormous castle, known as Priamar which dominates the harbor at Savona is impressive, not as a romantic castle, but as an incredible military fortress.  

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While there is evidence of the  site having been occupied since pre-roman times, this massive fortress was constructed in 1542 by the republic of Genoa.

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The place has a long history as a military stronghold, a prison, and even the jail of the pope for several years during the reign of Napoleon.

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Entry is free into the extensive parade grounds and ramparts, which afford wonderful views over Savona, and surrounding land and sea.

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Portofino: Castle Brown

Castle Brown, overlooking the inlet at romantic Portofino, is a personal favorite for me and Keith because it was the filming location of one of our favorite movies, The Enchanted April.  For us, Castle Brown will always be San Salvatore.

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Walking through this wonderful place is like stepping right into Elizabeth Von Arnim's book, The Enchanted April, or the film of the same name.

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The site has been occupied since Roman times, with the castle and subsequent additions added over the years.

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The castle is open to visitors, though times vary according to the seasons.

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