Top 9 Castles around Sessame

The area around Sessame is rich in medieval architecture. You'll find a variety of structures, including ancient monastic sites like Monastero Bormida, defensive watchtowers such as Vengore Tower, and residential castles like Castello e Torre di Olmo and Castello di Burio. The region showcases diverse architectural styles from different historical periods.

For breathtaking vistas, consider visiting Roccaverano, which is situated at one of the highest elevations and provides a 360° panorama of the surrounding hills and mountains. Vengore Tower, a 14th-century watchtower, also offers excellent viewpoints. Additionally, the climb to Castello Gancia, though the castle itself is private, rewards visitors with magnificent panoramic views.

Yes, Monastero Bormida is categorized as family-friendly and offers a fascinating historical site that was once a monastery. Exploring the medieval structures and learning about their history can be an engaging activity for families. Many of the castles are set in charming villages, offering pleasant walks and opportunities to explore local culture.

The area around Sessame is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous hiking trails, including routes that pass by historical sites like the 'Quirin Mayer Sculpture Park – Castello di Bubbio loop'. For cyclists, there are various road cycling routes, such as the 'Roccaverano – Canelli loop'. There are also running trails for those who prefer jogging.

The Piedmont region, where Sessame is located, is generally pleasant to visit during spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these seasons, the weather is mild, ideal for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking or cycling. The autumn also brings beautiful fall foliage to the vineyards surrounding many of the castles.

While specific dog-friendly designations for castle interiors might vary, many of the outdoor trails and paths around the castles are suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. For example, the hiking routes around Sessame offer opportunities for scenic walks in nature that you can enjoy with your canine companion.

Beyond the more prominent sites, the region research mentions Castello e Torre di Olmo, which is believed to date back to the twelfth century and revealed ancient frescoes during restoration. Castello di Burio, near Costigliole d'Asti, also has a rich history, having been restored after a period of abandonment and serving as a private home. These offer a deeper dive into the local heritage.

The Castello di Costigliole d'Asti is known for its medieval structure and its history as a frequent site of conflict. It features a distinctive quadrangular layout with towers at each of its four corners. The facade is adorned with statues depicting Aurelio and Giorgio Verasis Asinari, who were former lords of the castle, dressed as warriors, highlighting its martial past.

Visitors frequently appreciate the rich history and architectural heritage of the castles. Many enjoy the panoramic views offered from sites like Roccaverano and the unique charm of places like Monastero Bormida, especially when seen from its medieval bridge. The blend of historical exploration with scenic landscapes and outdoor activities is a major draw.

Yes, while some routes can be challenging, there are options for easier walks. Many of the villages where castles are located, such as Monastero Bormida and Rocchetta Palafea, offer moderate running and walking loops that are suitable for beginners. These routes often provide pleasant strolls through the local area and offer views of the historical sites without significant elevation changes.

Monastero Bormida was founded by Benedictine monks around 1050, who were called by Aleramo, Marquis of Monferrato, to cultivate lands devastated by the Saracens. The current castle stands precisely on the site of the original monastery, making it a place of deep historical and cultural interest, reflecting centuries of monastic and feudal history.

Many of the villages surrounding the castles, such as Roccaverano and Monastero Bormida, have local bars and restaurants. For instance, in Roccaverano, there's a strategic bar/restaurant in the central square, perfect for a break. These establishments offer opportunities to taste local specialties and relax after exploring.