Best castles around Cassano Spinola offer insights into the region's historical past, with remnants of ancient fortifications and well-preserved structures. The area, situated in Piedmont, features a landscape of hills and valleys, providing strategic locations for these historical sites. While the ancient castle of Cassano Spinola itself is largely in ruins, its historical significance is commemorated through local efforts like the School Museum. Visitors can explore various castles that once played pivotal roles in the region's history.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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departure from Dario's bar (unfortunately we didn't meet him but the guy there was simply very kind) and collection of credentials
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Symbol of Arquata, it is located on a hill overlooking the valley, it is approximately 22 meters high and built in Montaldero stone. It was part of the Castle, of which a few ruins of the mighty walls that sloped down from the hill and surrounded the old village and part of the walls of the keep that surrounded it are still visible. The Castle of Arquata had considerable strategic importance, so much so that it was disputed between many cities, but above all by Genoa and Tortona. But when Tortona managed to definitively take over the village of Arquata, purchasing it in 1244, a condition of stability was reached. The castle was rebuilt with the elevation of a tower and a new village at the base of the hill, close to the ancient Via Postumia, all surrounded by defense walls. As time passes, the strategic importance of the castle with its tower diminishes, and as it is a predominantly military structure, it is gradually abandoned. As the centuries passed, the old, increasingly dilapidated tower was struck by lightning which made its static nature even worse. In fact, on the morning of October 29, 1933, lightning struck part of the eastern corner, throwing large stones a great distance away.
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The castle of Carbonara Scrivia dates back to the 14th century or early 15th century, according to some documents found. The typical construction called "dongione" was built by Pierino Cameri on a previous property owned by the Curolo family, lords of Carbonara, who declined starting from 1246.
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The castle of Novi Ligure is located near the historic center of Novi Ligure and was for centuries the extreme northern border of the Republic of Genoa. It is part of the "Open Castles" circuit of Lower Piedmont. Only the tower and some sections of the surrounding walls remain of the castle, which today delimit part of the large park. It was crowned by a Ghibelline battlement which has been lost but is still perceptible, despite the current covering with a tile roof.
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Path from the village of Sorli to the castle Not pedalable..very steep climb, large stones, wood and deep holes. The descent is also difficult...
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The castle is owned by Count Cesare Giriodi Panissera di Monastero. The construction of the manor dates back to the second half of the 1300s and acquired value in the following centuries due to its strategic position: the town was in fact located on the borders of the Republic of Genoa, with the Savoy State and the various Lombard duchies.
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The Tower, on a hill overlooking the valley, is a symbol of Arquata. It is 22 meters high and was built in Montaldero stone. It was once part of the castle, of which some ruins remain of the mighty walls that descended from the hill and surrounded the old village. The Castle of Arquata had considerable strategic importance and was disputed between Genoa and Tortona. It is not very well maintained, but still worth a visit, and can be admired even from the center of the small town.
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The 14th century fortress of Carbonara Scrivia boasts the so-called "Dongione", built by Pierino Cameri. In addition to the dungeon, the defensive system of Carbonara Scrivia consisted of a fortified enclosure or castle, a moat and two access gates.
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You can explore several historically significant castles. The Castello di Francavilla Bisio, dating back to the late 1300s, held strategic importance. The Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia is a well-preserved 14th-century fortress. For panoramic views, visit the ruins of Sorli Castle, located at 661 meters.
Yes, the Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia and the Castello di Pozzolo Formigaro are both categorized as family-friendly. The latter, now the seat of the Municipality, features frescoes and a curious statue of the Madonna with Child.
Beyond the castles themselves, the region is rich in history. The ancient castle of Cassano Spinola, though largely in ruins, is commemorated by the School Museum "Le Nostre Radici" (Our Roots), which offers insights into local heritage. Many castles, like Novi Ligure Castle, were once strategic border fortifications.
The area around Cassano Spinola offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB trails, gravel biking routes, and running trails. These routes often pass through scenic landscapes, sometimes offering views of the castles or their surrounding areas.
Yes, the region provides several options for hiking and walking. While specific hiking trails directly to each castle might vary, you can explore general running and walking loops around Cassano Spinola and nearby towns like Serravalle Scrivia and Carezzano, which can offer views of the historical landscape.
The ruins of Sorli Castle are situated at 661 meters and provide extensive views of the plain from Alessandria to Tortona, including the Scrivia and Borbera Valleys. Novi Ligure Castle, with its imposing tower, is also located on a hilltop within a park, offering good viewpoints.
While specific opening hours for each castle may vary, spring and autumn generally offer pleasant weather for exploring the region's historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. The cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage can enhance the experience, especially for castles with scenic viewpoints.
Parking availability can vary by castle. For castles located within or near towns, such as Novi Ligure Castle or Castello di Pozzolo Formigaro, you will typically find public parking options in the vicinity. For more remote sites like Sorli Castle, access might involve parking at the base and walking.
The duration of your visit depends on the castle. For extensive sites like the Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia or Castello di Pozzolo Formigaro, which may have internal areas or museums, allow 1-2 hours. For ruined castles or those primarily offering external views, such as Sorli Castle, a shorter visit of 30-60 minutes might suffice, plus travel time.
Castles located in or close to towns, such as Novi Ligure Castle, will have cafes, restaurants, and other amenities readily available in the town center. For more isolated castles, it's advisable to check local services in nearby villages before your visit.
The Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia is notable for its exceptional state of conservation and architectural integrity among the few 'donjons' (keeps) found in Piedmont. This 14th-century fortress, built by Pierino Cameri, was part of a larger defensive system including a fortified enclosure, moat, and two access gates.


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