Top 20 Castles in Piacenza
Castles in Piacenza, a province in Italy's Emilia-Romagna region, are situated amidst the green valleys and hills, offering a blend of historical architecture and natural landscapes. This area is known for its numerous historical strongholds, many of which are part of the "Castles of the Duchy of Parma and Piacenza" circuit. These structures showcase centuries of history, featuring both defensive medieval designs and elegant Renaissance elements. The region's geography, from the Po Valley to the Apennine mountain range, provides a…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Rivalta Castle
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Keep of Vigoleno
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via Libertà s.n., 29010 Vigoleno PC
visitvigoleno.it
3297503774
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Rezzanello Castle and Church of San Michele Arcangelo
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Monticello Castle and Partisan Memorial
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Palazzo Farnese
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Momeliano Castle
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Rocca of Borgonovo Val Tidone
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Piazza Giuseppe Garibaldi, 18, 29011 Borgonovo Val Tidone PC
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Statto Castle
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Rivalta Castle
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Among the castles in Italy that host the Dutch royal family, Rivalta Castle is where Princess Margaret of England also stayed. It is located in Emilia and is …
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Gropparello Castle
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Il Castello di Monticello (Gazzola, PC) is a 14th-century medieval fortification strategically located between Val Trebbia and Val Luretta. Mentioned since 1372, it is known for its war events, including a battle in 1945. It was a fief of the Arcelli family and, despite war damage, retains its quadrangular structure.
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Monticello Castle, of strategic importance due to its location on the ridge of the Trebbia and Luretta valleys and its role in the entrenched camp, was first mentioned in 1372 when it was occupied by papal troops.
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The Castle was first mentioned in a document from 1001. On this occasion, Bishop Sigifredo granted the Benedictine monks of San Savino (Piacenza) some land, including the area of the Castle. The building has a trapezoidal plan and has four circular towers. The first of the four towers dates back to around the year 1000, which only later became four. The Castle was often the scene of clashes and battles. In 1212, the Guelphs of Piacenza took refuge there, threatened by the Ghibellines of Visconti, but they were worsted because they were defeated later in two battles. In the fourteenth century, the Castle was inhabited by Gabriello Boccapiccina, then it passed to the Chiapponi family. When the Chiapponi family died out, in the eighteenth century they were replaced by the Scotti di San Giorgio, who profoundly adapted the building, transforming it into a stately home. At the beginning of the twentieth century, the Castle belonged for a short period to the Lombardi of Genoa; it was then sold to Eng. Giuseppe Manfredi, who had it restored by Prof. Camillo Guidotti. From 1930 to 1987, the building was owned by the Ursuline Mothers of Piacenza. Today, the Castle is used by the current owner as a venue for private events.
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Very beautiful village, well worth a visit
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An important battle of the Liberation struggle took place here at the castle of Monticello, between 15 and 16 April 1945, in which a handful of partisans barricaded in the castle resisted and repelled a large Nazi-fascist troop of 450 men. Here is an exciting documentation: https://www.rivalta-trebbia.it/battaglia-di-monticello/
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Definitely worth it, there is a lot to explore, plan about 2 hours
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The castle was born as a medieval fortification in the Vezzeno Valley. The manor, surrounded by Guelph battlements, is defended by towers, the entrance one with a drawbridge and the mighty central keep. The Castle of Gropparello, known in ancient times as "Rocca di Cagnano", is a characteristic example of a medieval fortification built to defend the access route to a valley, conceived as a true eagle's nest overlooking the cliff, and therefore absolutely unassailable .. The oldest document known so far about Gropparello dates back to the year 810, and is the deed with which the emperor Charlemagne granted the place as a fief to the then bishop of Piacenza Giuliano II.
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The castle, mentioned in a sale deed of 1296, was built on a hill on the left bank of the Trebbia river, in front of Rivergaro, to control access to the valley together with the castles of Rivalta, Montechiaro and Rivergaro, located on the opposite bank. The castle has a rectangular plan with an internal courtyard and four cylindrical corner towers. Made of stones and pebbles from Trebbia, it is composed of three buildings and a single curtain wall, to the south, modified at the end of the 17th century with the addition of battlements and windows. The south-west corner tower has large Renaissance-style arched openings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly castles to visit in Piacenza?
Several castles in Piacenza are great for families. Gropparello Castle is known as Italy's first 'emotion-inspiring' park, offering an immersive medieval experience. The Visconti Fortress of Castell'Arquato is also family-friendly, and the village itself is charming. Rivalta Castle and Rocca of Borgonovo Val Tidone are also listed as family-friendly options.
Which castles offer the best panoramic views of the Piacenza region?
For breathtaking views, the Visconti Fortress of Castell'Arquato is a must-see. You can climb its 42-meter high main tower for panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside and the Po Valley. The Keep of Vigoleno, part of an intact medieval village, also offers commanding views of the surrounding vineyards and landscape. Castello Malaspina Dal Verme in Bobbio also features a tower with scenic views of the Trebbia Valley.
Can I find hiking or cycling trails near the castles in Piacenza?
Yes, the Piacenza region offers numerous outdoor activities near its castles. You can explore various routes, including mountain biking trails like the 'Valle del Trebbia - giro ad anello da Piacenza' or 'Gropparello, Bersani e colline - giro ad anello'. There are also gravel biking options and scenic hiking trails, such as those found in the 'Waterfall hikes in Piacenza' guide. For more details on these routes, visit the Piacenza outdoor guides.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in Piacenza?
The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for visiting the castles in Piacenza. The weather is pleasant for exploring the castle grounds and surrounding villages, and the natural landscapes are particularly beautiful. Summer can be warm, but still enjoyable, especially in the mornings or late afternoons. Winter visits are possible, but some attractions might have reduced hours, and the weather can be colder.
Are there any castles that offer a particularly immersive historical experience?
Absolutely. Gropparello Castle is renowned for its immersive medieval experience, often featuring activities inspired by medieval life. The Visconti Fortress of Castell'Arquato is famous for historical re-enactments of medieval battles and was even a filming location for the movie *Ladyhawke*. The Vigoleno Borough also offers a rich historical experience within its intact medieval village.
How can I reach the castles in Piacenza using public transport?
While some castles are accessible by public transport, many are located in more rural areas, making a car the most convenient option for exploring multiple sites. For specific routes and schedules, it's best to check local bus services or regional train connections to the nearest towns, such as Piacenza city, and then plan onward travel. For detailed information on reaching castles in the Duchy circuit, you might find resources on the official tourism website for Piacenza: visitpiacenza.it.
Are there options for dining or accommodation near the castles?
Yes, many of the castle locations are near charming villages that offer dining and accommodation. For example, Castell'Arquato, home to the Visconti Fortress, is listed among Italy's most beautiful villages and has various amenities. The Vigoleno Borough also features an intact medieval village with options for visitors. You'll find local restaurants and cafes offering traditional Emilia-Romagna cuisine in these areas.
Beyond the main attractions, are there any lesser-known castles worth exploring?
Yes, the Piacenza province is rich with historical sites beyond the most popular ones. Consider visiting Momeliano Castle or Statto Castle, a medieval castle from the 13th century in a beautiful location overlooking the Trebbia river. Boffalora Castle, often associated with the Tidone Trail, also offers a glimpse into the region's history.
What kind of architectural styles can I expect to see among Piacenza's castles?
Piacenza's castles showcase a fascinating evolution of architectural styles. You'll find robust medieval fortifications with Guelph battlements and imposing keeps, like Gropparello Castle. Many castles, such as Castello di Agazzano, beautifully blend defensive medieval architecture with the elegance of Renaissance design, having been transformed into sumptuous residences over centuries. This blend reflects their strategic importance and later adaptation to noble living.
Are there any castles in Piacenza that are particularly well-preserved or offer unique features?
The Keep of Vigoleno is part of a remarkably well-preserved medieval village. Gropparello Castle stands out with its irregular plan following a rocky spur, making it an unassailable medieval fortification. Castello di Agazzano is unique for its two distinct structures (castle and fortress) set within a large garden, adorned with vintage furniture and splendid frescoes. Castello Malaspina Dal Verme in Bobbio features the 'Sala delle Marine' and a 16th-century fresco.
Is it possible to visit castles that are privately owned?
Some castles in Piacenza are privately owned but still open to the public for visits, often with guided tours or special events. For example, Gropparello Castle, though private, organizes visits and activities. However, others, like Rezzanello Castle, remain private property and are not open to the public, though you can often admire them from the exterior.
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