Have you ever dreamed of living in a castle? Or maybe you’ve always wanted to explore one? If so, Italy is the perfect place for you! This country is home to some of the most impressive castles in Europe. From medieval fortresses to elegant palaces, there is something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, be sure to add some of these beautiful castles to your itinerary. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed!
1. Rocca Calascio – Abruzzo
Rocca Calascio is a mountaintop fortress in the Abruzzo region of Italy. It was built in the 10th century and served as an outpost for the Kingdom of Jerusalem.
The fortress was abandoned in the 13th century, but it was later used as a base by the Medici family during their wars with the Sforza family. Rocca Calascio is one of the best-preserved fortresses in Italy.
It is also one of the highest fortresses in Europe, towering over 4,000 feet above sea level. Today, Rocca Calascio is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fortress and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Address: 67020 Calascio, Province of L’Aquila, Italy
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2. Castello Sforzesco – Milan
The Castello Sforzesco is one of the most iconic landmarks in Milan, Italy. Located in the center of the city, the castle was originally built in the 15th century by Duke Francesco Sforza as a fortification against invaders.
Over the centuries, it has been expanded and renovated several times, and today it serves as a museum and cultural center. The castle is home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts, as well as a library, park, and theater.
Visitors can explore the different rooms and courtyards, or take a tour of the castle walls. The Castello Sforzesco is a must-see for anyone visiting Milan.
Address: Address: Piazza Castello, 20121 Milano MI, Italy
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3. Castel Sant’Angelo – Rome
Castel Sant’Angelo is a towering cylindrical building located in Rome, Italy. Built originally as a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Hadrian in around 136 AD, it later served as a fortress and palace, and is now a museum.
The height of the castle is 138 meters, and it has an inner diameter of over 30 meters. The exterior is clad in Travertine stone, while the interior features marble floors and walls. The castle is located on the banks of the River Tiber and features spectacular views of the city.
It is also home to a number of wartime artifacts, as well as a number of artworks by major Italian artists. A visit to Castel Sant’Angelo is a must for anyone interested in Roman history or architecture.
Address: Lungotevere Castello, 50, 00193 Roma RM, Italy
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4. Castelvecchio – Verona
Castelvecchio is a medieval castle located in Verona, Italy. The castle was built in the 14th century by the order of the Ghibelline ruler Cangrande II della Scala.
The castle served as both a defensive fortification and a residence for the Scaliger family. In the 19th century, the castle was bought by the city of Verona and underwent a major restoration.
Today, the castle houses the Civic Museum of Castelvecchio, which contains a collection of medieval art and artifacts. Visitors to the museum can also enjoy stunning views of the city from the castle walls.
Address: Corso Castelvecchio, 2, 37121 Verona VR, Italy
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5. Castello del Valentino – Turin
The imposing castle of Valentino, located in the north-western Italian city of Turin, has a long and rich history. Built in the 14th century by the order of Duke Amadeus VI of Savoy, it was originally intended as a hunting lodge.
However, over the centuries it has undergone numerous changes, serving at various times as a fortress, a royal residence, and even a military academy. Today, the castle is open to the public, and its grounds are home to a beautiful park.
Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and halls, which are filled with works of art and historical artifacts. With its stunning architecture and fascinating history, the Castle of Valentino is sure to enchant both young and old alike.
Address: Viale Mattioli, 39, 10125 Torino TO, Italy
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6. Castello di Sammezzano – Leccio
Located in the town of Leccio, in the province of Florence, Castello di Sammezzano is an extraordinary example of Moorish Revival architecture. The castle was built in the 16th century by Ximenes d’Aragona, a Spanish nobleman, and served as his family’s residence for centuries.
In the 19th century, the castle was purchased by Ferdinando Panciatichi Ximenes d’Aragona, who embarked on an ambitious project to transform it into a monument to Moorish culture. Over the course of 20 years, Panciatichi oversaw the construction of numerous buildings and gardens inspired by Moorish architecture and design.
Today, Castello di Sammezzano is one of the most renowned examples of Moorish Revival architecture in Europe and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Address: Via Giuseppe Garibaldi, 6, 50066 Leccio FI, Italy
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7. Castello Estense – Ferrara
The Castello Estense, also known as the Ducal Palace, is a grand castle located in the Italian city of Ferrara. Built-in the 14th century, it was originally intended to be a fortress, but over time it became the luxurious home of the Este family, one of the most powerful families in Renaissance Italy.
Today, the castle is open to the public, and visitors can explore its many rooms and courtyards, including the magnificent Chapel of Saint George. With its beautiful architecture and rich history, the Castello Estense is a must-see for anyone visiting Ferrara.
Address: L.go Castello, 1, 44121 Ferrara FE, Italy
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8. Castel Nuovo – Naples
Castel Nuovo, or the “new castle”, is a medieval castle located in Naples, Italy. The castle was built in 1279 by Charles of Anjou and was meant to serve as both a royal palace and a defensive structure.
Today, the castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Naples. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and courtyards, or climb to the top of the tower for a stunning view of the city. Castel Nuovo is a must-see for anyone visiting Naples.
Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele III, 80133 Napoli NA, Italy
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9. Ursino Castle – Sardinia
Ursino Castle is a fascinating piece of Sardinian history. Built-in the 13th century, it was the seat of the powerful judge Sir Edward I, who ruled over much of the island.
The castle is an imposing sight, with high walls and towers that offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the extensive grounds, which include a large courtyard and beautiful gardens.
Inside the castle, there are a number of interesting rooms to explore, including a chapel and a prison. Ursino Castle is a must-see for anyone interested in Sardinian history or architecture.
Address: Piazza Federico di Svevia, 95121 Catania CT, Italy
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10. Soave Castle – Verona
Soave Castle is an iconic landmark in the city of Verona, Italy. The castle is located atop a hill in the center of the city, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The castle was first built in the 11th century and has been extensively renovated over the centuries. Today, it houses a museum that chronicles the history of the castle and its occupants.
Visitors can also explore the former dungeons and tower rooms, which have been meticulously preserved. The castle grounds are also home to a beautiful garden, which is open to the public. Soave Castle is a must-see for any visitor to Verona.
Address: Via Castello Scaligero, 12/14, 37038 Soave VR, Italy
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11. Visconti Castle – Pavia
Visconti Castle in Pavia, Italy is an imposing fortress that was once the seat of the powerful Visconti family. The castle dates back to 1360, and its massive walls and towers attest to its defensive strength.
Today, the castle is open to the public, and visitors can explore its many rooms and courtyards. The castle also houses a museum with a collection of art and artifacts from the Visconti era. A visit to Visconti Castle is sure to be a fascinating and memorable experience.
Address: Viale XI Febbraio, 35, 27100 Pavia PV, Italy
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12. Castel del Monte – Apulia
Castel del Monte in Apulia, Italy is a beautiful and historic castle that sits atop a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside. The castle was built in the 13th century by Emperor Frederick II and is considered to be one of the most impressive examples of medieval architecture.
The castle is octagonal in shape and has eight towers, each with its own unique design. The interior of the castle is equally as impressive, with lavish decorations and intricate stonework.
Today, the castle is a popular tourist destination and is well worth a visit if you are ever in the area.
Address: Contrada Castel del Monte Ex, Strada Statale 170, 76123 Andria BT, Italy
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13. Aragonese Castle – Gallipoli
The Aragonese Castle is a medieval fortress located on a small island just off the coast of Gallipoli, Italy. The castle was built in the 14th century by the Aragonese, and it served as an important defensive structure during wars with the Ottoman Empire.
Today, the castle is a popular tourist destination, and it is one of the most well-preserved medieval fortresses in Europe. Visitors can explore the castle’s massive walls, turrets, and chambers, and they can enjoy stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea from its ramparts.
The Aragonese Castle is a fascinating piece of history, and it is well worth a visit for anyone interested in exploring medieval architecture.
Address: Accesso dal mercato coperto, 73014, Gallipoli, Italy
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14. Miramare Castle – Trieste
Miramare Castle is a 19th-century sea fortress located in the town of Trieste, Italy. The castle was built by Austrian Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian I, and it served as his residence during his time as Governor of the Austro-Hungarian province of Lombardy-Venetia.
The castle is situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the Gulf of Trieste, and it features an Italianate garden, a museum, and a number of historical exhibits. Today, Miramare Castle is one of Trieste’s most popular tourist attractions, and it receives hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Address: V.le Miramare, 34151 Trieste TS, Italy
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15. Rapallo Castle – Genoa
Nestled atop a hill in the picturesque city of Genoa, Italy is Rapallo Castle. The castle dates back to the 12th century when it was first built as a fortification by the Republic of Genoa.
Over the centuries, the castle has undergone many changes, most notably in the 16th century when it was converted into a luxurious palace. Today, Rapallo Castle is open to the public and features a number of impressive art collections, as well as stunning views of the city below.
Visitors can also enjoy a number of traditional Italian dishes at the castle’s on-site restaurant. Whether you’re visiting Genoa for its history or its cuisine, a trip to Rapallo Castle is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Address: Lungomare Vittorio Veneto, 16035 Rapallo GE, Italy
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16. Castello Malaspina di Massa – Massa
The magnificent Castello Malaspina di Massa in Massa, Italy is a must-see for any traveler. This historic castle dates back to the 13th century and has been inhabited by a number of noble families over the centuries.
Today, the castle is open to the public and offers a wide range of amenities, including a museum, an art gallery, and a restaurant. The castle also boasts an impressive collection of armor and weaponry, as well as a beautiful garden.
Visitors can tour the castle at their own pace or take part in guided tours. Regardless of how you choose to explore the Castello, you’re sure to be impressed by its beauty and history.
Address: Via del Forte, 15, 54100 Massa MS, Italy
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17. Rocca dei Rettori – Benevento
The Rocca dei Rettori is a stunning example of medieval architecture, and it has been a centerpiece of the city of Benevento for centuries. The castle was built in the 12th century by the Aldobrandeschi family, and it served as their stronghold until it was taken over by the commune of Benevento in the 13th century.
The Rocca dei Rettori has an imposing presence, with its massive walls and towering keep. But it is also a beautiful castle, with ornate features and intricate stonework.
Today, the Rocca dei Rettori is open to the public, and it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Benevento. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and courtyards, and they can also enjoy sweeping views of the city from the top of the keep.
Address: Piazza Castello, 82100 Benevento BN, Italy
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18. Forteresse de Sarzanello – Sarzana
The Forteresse de Sarzanello is a beautifully preserved medieval fortress located in the town of Sarzana, Italy. The fortress was built in the 13th century to protect the town from invaders, and it played an important role in defending against the Genoese in the 14th century.
The fortification walls and towers are impressive examples of medieval military architecture, and the fortress grounds offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The Forteresse de Sarzanello is a popular tourist destination, and it is well worth a visit if you are interested in learning more about Italian history and culture.
Address: Via Alla Fortezza, snc, 19038 Sarzana SP, Italy
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19. Castello Brown – Portofino
Nestled atop a hill in the scenic town of Portofino, Italy, Castello Brown is a must-see destination for any traveler. This stunning castle dates back to the 13th century when it was first built by the Genoese as a fortification against invaders.
Today, the castle is open to the public, and visitors can explore its many rooms and corridors, which are filled with fascinating historical artifacts. In addition to its rich history, Castello Brown also offers breathtaking views of the surrounding harbor and coastline. A visit to Castello Brown is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Address: Via alla Penisola, 13, 16034 Portofino GE, Italy
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20. Buonconsiglio Castle – Trento
Buonconsiglio Castle is a historic castle located in Trento, Italy. The castle was built in the 13th century and has been home to many different families over the centuries.
Today, the castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination. The castle features a large number of rooms and halls, as well as a courtyard and gardens.
Visitors can also explore the dungeons, which were once used to imprison political opponents. The castle also houses a museum, which displays artwork and artifacts from the region’s history. Buonconsiglio Castle is a beautiful and fascinating site that is well worth a visit.
Address: Via Bernardo Clesio, 5, 38122 Trento TN, Italy
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In Conclusion
There are many beautiful and fascinating castles in Italy that are well worth a visit. Each castle has its own unique history and architecture, and they all offer something different to see and do.
Whether you’re interested in exploring a medieval fortress or admiring views of the coastline, you’re sure to find a castle that you’ll love. So start planning your trip to Italy today and be sure to include a stop at one of these stunning castles.
