Top 7 Castles around Busano
Best castles around Busano are situated within the Canavese region, an area near Turin characterized by its historical significance and diverse terrain. This region features several notable historical castles, many of which originated as defensive fortresses. The landscape offers a blend of cultural landmarks and natural features.
Best castles around Busano
- The most popular castles is Rivara Castle, a castle that was an important seat of the Cenacle of painters of the Rivara school. It is composed of three distinct buildings and surrounded by a park of over 45,000 square meters.
- Another must-see spot is Agliè - the historic town center, a historical site with a thousand-year history rooted in the Roman era. Visitors can explore the village with its stone houses and noble palaces, and view the imposing buildings and mountain vistas.
- Visitors also love La Piè di Liramo Fortified Hamlet and Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, a small fortified village with a church and a small castle built for defensive purposes. This hamlet provides an interesting example of a fortified house.
- Busano is known for its medieval fortresses, royal residences, and fortified hamlets. The area offers a variety of castles to see and explore, each with its own historical and architectural characteristics.
- The castles around Busano are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 20 upvotes and 7 photos shared.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Agliè - the historic town center
Highlight • Historical Site
Agliè, as a fortified village, emerges in documents in 1141, when the feudal lords of Canavese divided the territory. The town became one of the lands of the San Martino di Rivarolo and Agliè, a family that would profoundly mark the history of the village. Despite the feudal struggles that raged in the region, Agliè maintained relative stability, even if it was not immune to looting and devastation.
With the arrival of the Savoy, Agliè experienced a period of growth and development. In 1448, the village obtained municipal statutes, a sign of autonomy and recognition. The most emblematic figure of this period was Count Filippo San Martino di Agliè, a man of culture and prominent politician. Minister of Cristina of France, regent of the Duchy of Savoy, Filippo transformed the castle of Agliè into a sumptuous residence, enriching it with works of art and gardens.
Today, Agliè is a village that preserves its historical and artistic charm intact. The Ducal Castle, with its gardens and richly decorated rooms, is an unmissable destination for visitors. The streets of the village, with their stone houses and noble palaces, tell the story of a place that has managed to preserve its identity over the centuries.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Rivara Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Agliè Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
La Piè di Liramo Fortified Hamlet and Church of Santa Maria Maddalena
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Agliè Castle Park
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles around Busano.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Beautiful old town with imposing buildings and views of the mountains.
0
0
interesting example of a fortified house
0
0
Agliè, an enchanting village in the heart of Canavese, boasts a thousand-year history that has its roots in the Roman era. The original nucleus, probably located on the hills of the current hamlet of Santa Maria delle Grazie, was known as "Macunciacum" and depended on the Abbazia Fruttuaria di San Benigno. Agliè, as a fortified village, emerges in documents in 1141, when the feudal lords of Canavese divided the territory. The town became one of the lands of the San Martino di Rivarolo and Agliè, a family that would profoundly mark the history of the village. Despite the feudal struggles that raged in the region, Agliè maintained relative stability, even if it was not immune to looting and devastation. With the arrival of the Savoy, Agliè experienced a period of growth and development. In 1448, the village obtained municipal statutes, a sign of autonomy and recognition. The most emblematic figure of this period was Count Filippo San Martino di Agliè, a man of culture and prominent politician. Minister of Cristina of France, regent of the Duchy of Savoy, Filippo transformed the castle of Agliè into a sumptuous residence, enriching it with works of art and gardens. Today, Agliè is a village that preserves its historical and artistic charm intact. The Ducal Castle, with its gardens and richly decorated rooms, is an unmissable destination for visitors. The streets of the village, with their stone houses and noble palaces, tell the story of a place that has managed to preserve its identity over the centuries.
0
0
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, the Ducal Castle of Agliè is perhaps the most significant architectural work in the Canavese area. The current appearance of the majestic castle is the result of four major construction phases, which led it to change its shape over the centuries, transforming it from a fortified building from the Middle Ages to a true royal residence, as can still be admired today.
1
0
A beautiful park, very well kept, also visitable by bike. On the south side the Italian garden and the wonderful greenhouses (the green and the white in particular). On the north side the large fountain of the three rivers and the park itself, designed according to the fashion of the Romantic English Garden.
0
0
The castle of Rivara, an important seat of the Cenacle of painters of the Rivara school, is located 30 kilometers from Turin in the Canavese valleys. It is made up of three distinct buildings: the medieval castle, the neo-baroque villa and the stables, surrounded by a park of over 45,000 square metres. Inside, numerous ateliers and rooms regularly host Italian and foreign artists. The multifunctional exhibition space is 2,530 square meters, and the artistic direction was entrusted to Franz Paludetto from 1985 to 2023, the year of his death.
2
0
Small fortified village belonging to the Municipality of San Carlo. Noteworthy is the church of Santa Maria Maddalena and the small castle, the latter built for defensive purposes. The first information about this small village dates back to the year 1000.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most notable castles to visit around Busano?
Beyond the popular Rivara Castle, which is known for its artistic connections, you can explore the majestic Ducal Castle of Agliè, a former medieval fortress that became a royal residence. Another significant site is the Malgrà Castle, built in the 14th century and now hosting cultural events. The region also features the beautiful Castello di Pavone, considered one of Italy's most stunning castles, and the historic Castello di Parella with its important frescoes.
Are there family-friendly castles in the Busano area?
Yes, several castles around Busano are considered family-friendly. The historic town center of Agliè, which includes the Ducal Castle, is a great option. Ducal Castle of Agliè itself is listed as family-friendly, as is Malgrà Castle. These sites often offer engaging experiences for all ages.
What kind of historical significance do the castles around Busano have?
The castles in the Canavese region, near Busano, boast a rich history dating back to the Roman era and medieval times. Many, like Castello di Pavone, originated as defensive fortresses against invaders. They reflect centuries of transformations, ownership by influential families like the Savoy, and have served as royal residences, artistic centers (like Rivara Castle), and even UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Can I find walking trails or outdoor activities near these castles?
While specific walking trails directly around each castle might vary, the broader Busano region offers numerous outdoor activities. You can find various cycling and mountain biking routes nearby. For example, there are several challenging cycling routes like the 'View of Castello di Valperga – Pian del Lupo loop' and MTB trails such as 'Da Front nella Riserva della Vauda – giro ad anello'. You can explore these and more on the Cycling around Busano guide or the MTB Trails around Busano guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Busano?
The Canavese region, where these castles are located, is generally pleasant for visiting from spring through autumn. These seasons offer mild weather, making it ideal for exploring the castle grounds and nearby outdoor areas. Winter visits are possible, but some attractions might have reduced hours, and the weather can be colder.
Are there any castles around Busano that are particularly known for their art or cultural connections?
Absolutely. Rivara Castle is historically significant as an important seat of the Cenacle of painters of the Rivara school, and it continues to host numerous ateliers and exhibitions. Castello di Parella also stands out for its rooms adorned with important frescoes depicting historical and mythological themes, and it houses a small private museum.
Are there options for cycling or mountain biking near the castles?
Yes, the area around Busano is well-suited for cycling and mountain biking. You can find a range of routes from easy to difficult. For instance, the Cycling around Busano guide lists routes like 'View of Castello di Valperga – Pont Canavese loop'. For mountain biking, the MTB Trails around Busano guide offers options such as 'Nei dintorni di Front Torinese – giro ad anello'.
What are some unique features or hidden gems among the castles near Busano?
Beyond the main castles, you can discover unique sites like La Piè di Liramo Fortified Hamlet and Church of Santa Maria Maddalena. This small fortified village offers an interesting example of a defensive house and a glimpse into medieval life. Castello di Pavone is also considered a 'lucky castle,' believed to bestow luck, love, and prosperity upon its visitors.
Are there any castles that offer accommodation or dining?
Yes, Castello di Pavone, a short drive from Ivrea, has been meticulously restored and now functions as a refined hotel and restaurant. This offers a unique opportunity to experience a blend of antique charm and modern amenities within a historic setting.
What do visitors generally enjoy about the castles in this region?
Visitors appreciate the rich history and architectural beauty of the castles, many of which originated as defensive fortresses. The blend of cultural landmarks with natural features, such as mountain vistas from places like Agliè - the historic town center, is also highly valued. The komoot community has shown strong engagement, with over 20 upvotes and 7 photos shared for these sites.
Are there any fortified hamlets or smaller defensive structures to explore?
Yes, the region is home to interesting fortified hamlets. A notable example is La Piè di Liramo Fortified Hamlet and Church of Santa Maria Maddalena. This small village, with its church and a small castle built for defensive purposes, provides an excellent example of a fortified house and offers insight into the area's medieval past.
How can I get to the castles around Busano using public transport?
While specific public transport routes to every castle can vary, the Canavese region is generally accessible. For detailed information on reaching specific castles by public transport, it's advisable to check local transport schedules or consult resources like VisitItaly.com for general travel advice in the Piedmont region.
Most popular attractions around Busano
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Busano:
