Top 13 Castles around Murello
Best castles around Murello are found in the Piedmont region of Italy, offering a blend of historical significance and architectural interest. While Murello itself features the historic Templar Castle, the wider area provides access to several well-preserved castles. The landscape around Murello is characterized by agricultural fields and small towns, providing a quiet setting for exploring these historical landmarks. This region is known for its rich history, particularly its connections to noble families and medieval orders.
Best castles around Murello
- The most popular castles is Racconigi Royal Castle, a castle that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former Savoy residence. It features sumptuous apartments, stuccos, frescoes, and a significant park and gardens.
- Another must-see spot is Monasterolo Castle, a castle originally built in the 13th century. Its massive structure, three corner towers, a cylindrical tower, and a perimeter moat remain intact from its rebuilding between 1363 and 1378.
- Visitors also love Templar Castle and Church of San Giovanni of Murello, a 13th-century building. Originally belonging to the Knights Templar, it now serves as the residence of the parish priest and includes an adjacent church with a neo-Gothic facade.
- Murello is known for its medieval strongholds and royal residences. Visitors can explore both local historical sites and grander castles in the surrounding Piedmont region.
- The castles around Murello are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 100 upvotes and 29 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
Racconigi Royal Castle
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Founded around the 11th century as a stronghold in the Marca of Turin, the castle of Racconigi subsequently passed to the Marquises of Saluzzo and then to the Savoy. The original fortified structure with corner towers was transformed during the seventeenth century: in 1670, in conjunction with the elevation of the castle to the residence of the Savoy-Carignano family, André Le Nôtre designed the garden; in 1676 Guarino Guarini undertook a comprehensive renovation of the building, which was never completed. Starting from 1755 the works were resumed by the architect Giambattista Borra at the behest of Prince Luigi of Savoy-Carignano: the pavilions on the main façade, the large access pronaos, the hall characterized by the so-called "loggia of musicians" date back to this phase, Diana's room and the Chinese lavatories. But it was with the accession to the throne of Carlo Alberto, prince of Carignano, that the residence took on its present appearance: in 1820 the German gardener Xavier Kurten redesigned the green spaces, while the decoration and rearrangement of the interiors were entrusted to the architect Pelagio Palagi, whose taste between neoclassical and eclectic is well represented by an environment of singular charm such as the Etruscan Cabinet. At the same time, the neo-Gothic style service buildings of the Serre and Margaria were built on the edge of the park, intended for the agricultural management of the territory pertaining to the castle. With the transfer of the capital from Turin to Florence (1865) and then to Rome (1871), the royals gradually lost interest in the castle, at least until the early twentieth century, when King Vittorio Emanuele III elected it again as the seat of holiday. The castle was purchased in 1980 by the Italian state.
The sumptuous apartments are evidence of the most significant stages of transformation that the castle underwent from the seventeenth century to the beginning of the twentieth: stuccos, frescoes and furnishings constitute a significant panorama of the changing taste of the court over the course of about four hundred years. The gardens and park keep their nineteenth-century layout intact, characterized by a romantic structure with streams, ponds, caves and monuments.
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Monasterolo Castle
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In fact, the massive structure preserved intact to this day, as well as the three corner towers and the cylindrical tower located to the south-west, the only evidence of the first system, together with the perimeter moat and the door called "Rivellino", date back to this period.
Important renovations were carried out between the 16th and 17th centuries, and involved the restoration of some rooms adorned with clap vaults, the construction of the three-ramp staircase on pillars, and the roofing of the building with a tiled roof. The fine carved and painted coffered ceilings in the two salons on the first floor belong to the early seventeenth century. During the following century, the rococo decorations of the two halls on the mezzanine floor were created (the so-called "golden room" is pretty, for the richness and finesse of the chisels and for the six pretty paintings set in the walls, depicting some bouquets of flowers and busts of two women), and the construction of the north pavilion of the castle with the consequent opening of the entrance on the homonymous square.
The last intervention concerned, at the beginning of the nineteenth century, the erection of the wing facing north-west to complete the facade.
Countess Maria Solaro di Monasterolo, wife of the knight Carlo Buglione di Monale, with deed of January 3, 1928, sold the castle to the municipality of Monasterolo.
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Historic Center of Cavallerleone
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Templar Castle and Church of San Giovanni of Murello
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Castello di Bonavalle
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Tips from the Community
The crumbling ruins of the Bonavalle castle are not visitable. The farm and the surrounding buildings are very beautiful and characteristic. They make you think about what the place must have been like at the beginning of the last century, when the castle was still inhabited and in good condition. https://www.paesifantasma.it/Luoghi/castello-bonavalle.html
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Always beautiful to see
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Already arriving from the retino you can see how beautiful this castle is, which unfortunately is abandoned but looking at it and having a bit of imagination you understand
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The palace is very beautiful and quite large. Years ago I went in the summer to visit the beautiful gardens in the evening.
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the storks haven't arrived yet 😉
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Place of worship and prayer Via della Chiesa, 8, 12030 Murello CN http://www.parrocchiaracconigimurello.org/
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Thirteenth-century castle, remodeled in the following centuries and now the seat of the Municipality. It is located a short distance from the churches of Monasterolo. Easy to reach, it is very suggestive.
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Savoy palace. Fountain in the square
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of the castles around Murello?
The castles in the Murello area, particularly in the wider Piedmont region, hold significant historical value. Many were strongholds of noble families, like the Savoy, and medieval orders such as the Knights Templar. For example, the Racconigi Royal Castle was a Savoy residence and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing centuries of royal history and architectural evolution. The Templar Castle and Church of San Giovanni of Murello dates back to the 13th century and was originally owned by the Knights Templar, offering a glimpse into the region's medieval past.
Which castles near Murello offer extensive tours and interior access?
For extensive tours and interior access, the Racconigi Royal Castle is highly recommended. It features sumptuous apartments, stuccos, frescoes, and a significant park and gardens, making it a major cultural and museum hub. Other notable castles in the wider Cuneo province, such as Castello della Manta and Castello di Sommariva o Seyssel d'Aix, also offer more extensive visitor experiences compared to the Templar Castle in Murello, which is primarily viewed from the exterior.
Can I visit the interior of the Templar Castle in Murello?
The Templar Castle and Church of San Giovanni of Murello currently serves as the residence of the parish priest, so its interior cannot be visited. However, you can appreciate the exterior of the castle and the adjacent Church of San Giovanni, which features a neo-Gothic facade, offering a charming historical view.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Murello?
Yes, several castles in the area are considered family-friendly. The Racconigi Royal Castle, with its vast park and gardens, is an excellent option for families. Its grounds offer space for children to explore, and the historical interiors provide an educational experience. Monasterolo Castle is also listed as family-friendly, and its impressive structure and moat can capture the imagination of younger visitors.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Murello?
The area around Murello and its castles offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for running, mountain biking, and hiking. For example, near Racconigi Royal Castle, there are easy rides suitable for families. You can explore a variety of trails, such as the 'Racconigi Royal Castle – Between fields and the Maira loop' for MTB or the 'Racconigi Castle – Racconigi Royal Castle loop' for hiking. For more options, check out the Hiking around Murello guide, MTB Trails around Murello guide, and Running Trails around Murello guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Murello?
The best time to visit the castles around Murello is generally during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is pleasant for exploring castle grounds and parks, and the natural scenery is particularly beautiful. Summer can be warm, but still enjoyable, while winter might offer a different, quieter charm, though some attractions may have reduced hours.
Is parking available at the castles near Murello?
Parking availability varies by castle. For major sites like Racconigi Royal Castle, public parking is generally available nearby. For Monasterolo Castle, which houses the Municipality, parking is typically accessible in the vicinity. The Templar Castle and Church of San Giovanni of Murello is located within the village, and street parking might be available for a short stop to view the exterior.
Are any castles around Murello wheelchair accessible?
While specific accessibility details for all castles are not fully provided, larger sites like Racconigi Royal Castle, being a major museum and cultural hub, often have provisions for wheelchair access in certain areas, particularly the grounds and main floor. It's advisable to check their official website for the most up-to-date accessibility information before your visit.
Can I bring my dog to the castles or their surrounding parks?
Policies regarding dogs vary. While dogs are generally not allowed inside the historical buildings of castles, some parks and outdoor areas may permit them, often on a leash. The extensive park of Racconigi Royal Castle might allow dogs in designated areas. It's best to confirm directly with each castle's management regarding their specific pet policies before your visit.
What other historical landmarks can I see in the Murello region?
Beyond the castles, the Murello region offers other historical landmarks. The Historic Center of Cavallerleone, for instance, boasts an incredible density of historic buildings, including the splendid Palazzo Balbo Ferrero, remains of a medieval castle, and several churches and palaces, all within a small, walkable area. It's considered a true unknown gem worth exploring.
Are there any less crowded castles to visit near Murello?
If you're looking for less crowded options, consider exploring castles slightly off the main tourist path. While Racconigi Royal Castle is very popular, smaller, privately owned or less extensively developed castles like Castello di Bonavalle (visible from the outside) or the Templar Castle and Church of San Giovanni of Murello offer a quieter experience. Additionally, exploring the exteriors of castles like Castello della Morra or Castello di Sommariva o Seyssel d'Aix might provide a more serene visit, depending on the season.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Murello?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and architectural beauty. The grandeur of sites like Racconigi Royal Castle, with its rich history and beautiful park, is a major draw. The impressive structure of Monasterolo Castle and its well-preserved medieval elements are also highly regarded. Even the more modest Templar Castle in Murello is valued for its unique Templar connection and charming complex, offering a glimpse into the region's deep past.
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