Top 5 Castles around Castellania
Best castles around Castellania are located in Italy's Piedmont region, primarily within the Province of Alessandria. This area, which includes the commune of Castellania Coppi, features a landscape marked by historical administrative divisions and strategic medieval fortifications. Visitors can explore a variety of historical sites and castle remnants that reflect the region's past. The terrain often includes valleys like the Scrivia and Borbera, providing context for these ancient structures.
Best castles around Castellania
- The most popular castles is Dongione of…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia
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Sorli Castle
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Vargo Castle and Tower
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Castello di Torre Ratti
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MONTEGIOCO PALACE
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Montegioco is a small municipality in Piedmont, in the province of Alessandria, in the Val Grue. The hamlet of Palazzo is the municipal seat and is located in the valley floor, in a flatter area compared to the historic village of Montegioco.
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Vargo has had a castle known since 1157, the year of the invasions of Barbarossa's troops, but this construction was actually built as a signal tower in the Lombard era and is part of the so-called line of castles documented by Pertica.
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Vargo is a hamlet of the municipality of Stazzano (AL) at about 410 m above sea level. During the Middle Ages it was an imperial fiefdom under the Genoese families of Fieschi and then Doria. In 1797 it was annexed to the Ligurian Republic and after the fall of Napoleon it followed the fate of the province of Novi, becoming part of Piedmont in 1859 with the Rattazzi Decree. It was an independent municipality until 1928. Vargo has a castle known since 1157, the year of the invasions of the troops following Barbarossa, but this construction was actually born as a signal tower in the Lombard era and is part of the so-called line of castles. The town developed concentrically around the “castle”, rebuilt by the Fieschi family of Genoa, lords of Vargo since 1413: after the conspiracy against the said feudal lords, it was dismantled in 1442, and later passed to the Doria family in 1547. Next to what must have been the south-east walls, there is still an oratory dedicated to the Virgin of the Annunciation, while today the once fortified structure is partly used as a residence, and the very visible main tower, inside which are the living quarters of the last owner, has not been altered.
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it deserves a stop perhaps to refresh yourself; The castle is certainly interesting but also the parish church with the naïve images of saints in the lunettes of the three portals; in the center the Baptism of Christ
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The Torre Ratti castle is located in the hamlet of Torre Ratti in the municipality of Borghetto di Borbera, in the lower part of the Borbera valley, in the province of Alessandria. The lower Borbera valley was part of the Duchy of Milan for centuries and was enfeoffed by the Rati-Opizzoni family from Tortona.
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The Castle of Torre Ratti, as cited in a document from 1413, was officially born with the concession as a fiefdom and the oath of loyalty made by the inhabitants of Borghetto di Borbera. In 1629, the square tower was added to the main structure and some internal changes were made. Subsequently, however, was the expansion carried out between the two towers and the construction of the rooms on the north side. The current appearance of the castle suggests that of a rich fortified residence, with late Renaissance and Baroque architectural features. An interesting Italian garden surrounds the architectural complex.
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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of castles can I expect to find around Castellania?
The area around Castellania Coppi in Italy's Piedmont region features a mix of historical sites, including 12th-century castle ruins, 14th-century fortresses, and later fortified residences. You'll encounter structures like the impressive keep of the Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia and the remnants of Sorli Castle, which offers panoramic views.
Are there any castles with significant historical features?
Yes, the Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia is a notable 14th-century fortress with a well-preserved 'Dongione' or keep, part of a larger defensive system. Another significant site is Vargo Castle and Tower, which originated as a Lombard signal tower and has a history dating back to 1157.
Which castles offer the best views?
Sorli Castle, though ruined, is located at 661 meters and provides extensive panoramic views of the plain from Alessandria to Tortona, including the Scrivia and Borbera Valleys.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit?
Many historical sites can be interesting for families. The Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia is listed as family-friendly, offering a glimpse into medieval fortifications. Castello di Torre Ratti, with its Italian garden, also provides an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
What kind of architecture can I see in the castles around Castellania?
You'll find a range of architectural styles. For instance, the Castello di Torre Ratti showcases late Renaissance and Baroque features, including a square tower added in 1629 and an Italian garden. Other sites, like the Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia, represent earlier medieval fortress designs.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Castellania offers various outdoor activities. You can explore hiking trails, including routes like 'The Route of the Badlands and Vineyards'. For cyclists, there are MTB trails and gravel biking routes that take you through the scenic Piedmont vineyards and valleys.
Are there specific hiking trails that pass by castles or historical sites?
While specific trails directly to every castle aren't detailed, the 'Medieval Towers of Sant'Alosio – Monte San Vito Summit loop' is an MTB trail that hints at historical structures. For general hiking, you can find routes like 'The Route of the Badlands and Vineyards' in the hiking guide for Castellania, which will lead you through the historical landscape.
What is the significance of 'Castellania' as a name in this region?
Historically, a 'castellania' was an administrative subdivision in medieval Europe, signifying the territory governed by a castellan from a central castle. While the commune of Castellania Coppi is named after this concept and its ancient castle remnants, the term itself refers more to the administrative territory than a specific, prominent castle or a region densely packed with well-preserved castles.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Castellania?
Visitors appreciate the historical depth and the scenic locations of these sites. The panoramic views from places like Sorli Castle are highly regarded, as is the architectural integrity of structures like the Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia. The opportunity to explore remnants of medieval fortifications and later fortified residences in a beautiful natural setting is a key draw.
Can I find any palaces or grand residences in addition to castles?
Yes, the Castello di Torre Ratti is described as a rich fortified residence with late Renaissance and Baroque architectural features, complete with an Italian garden. Additionally, MONTEGIOCO PALACE is another site that combines castle elements with a parish church, offering a different historical perspective.
Are there any specific tips for visiting the Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia?
The Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia is a 14th-century fortress known for its prominent keep. It's one of the few well-preserved examples of a 'dongione' in Piedmont, making it a significant historical visit. The defensive system originally included a fortified enclosure, a moat, and two access gates, offering a comprehensive look at medieval military architecture.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in this region?
The Piedmont region, where Castellania Coppi is located, generally offers pleasant weather for exploring historical sites and outdoor activities during spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October). These seasons provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful landscapes, ideal for both castle visits and enjoying nearby hiking or biking trails.
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