Best castles around Villaromagnano are located in the surrounding areas, providing insight into the region's historical significance. While Villaromagnano itself does not feature prominent castles, the nearby Tortona area and the Scrivia and Borbera Valleys are home to several historical sites. These structures often stand on strategic hills, offering historical context to the landscape. The region's terrain includes hilly areas where many of these ancient fortifications are situated.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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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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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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The castle of Tortona was a castle that stood on the Savo hill, the most important of the seven on which, according to tradition, the city of Tortona was founded. The name refers to various defensive constructions that arose on the same site over the course of two millennia. Between the 8th and 5th centuries BC. archaeological investigations in fact place the foundation of a hillfort by the Ligurians.
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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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The Castle park is a large green area located in the hilly area of Tortona close to the historic centre. It is a place of memory of the city, having been the scene of historical events such as the siege of Frederick Barbarossa. At the top of the park is the Tower, the city's symbol, which together with a few ruins is evidence of the ancient fortress that overlooked the town until its destruction by Napoleon in 1801.
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The Castle of Pozzolo Formigaro stands on top of an alluvial terrace overlooking the plain. Building of medieval origin, it was built around the 11th century as a defensive fortress on the plain. The entrance front, from the Sforza era, retains the carriage door and the grooves for the drawbridge. Today the municipal seat, it presents inside, in the fifteenth century wing, the fifteenth century frescoes created by the Tortona school of the brothers Franceschino and Manfredino Boxilio (Madonna with Child, Saint Lucia, Saint Biagio, Saint Francis), "torn" from the Church of S. Sebastiano (today of Nostra Signora delle Ghiare) and a wooden Madonna dating back to the 15th century
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The 14th century fortress of Carbonara Scrivia boasts the so-called "Dongione", built by Pierino Cameri. In addition to the dungeon, the defensive system of Carbonara Scrivia consisted of a fortified enclosure or castle, a moat and two access gates.
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The area around Villaromagnano offers a diverse range of historical fortifications, including ancient towers, ruined castles, and well-preserved fortresses. These sites provide insight into the region's historical significance, often standing on strategic hills.
Yes, several castles in the vicinity are suitable for families. The Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia, a well-preserved 14th-century fortress, is considered family-friendly. Another option is the Castello di Pozzolo Formigaro, which is now a municipal seat and also listed as family-friendly.
For impressive views, consider visiting the Sorli Castle. Located at 661 meters, this ruined 12th-century castle offers extensive views of the plain from Alessandria to Tortona, including the Scrivia and Borbera Valleys. The Tower of the Castle of Tortona also provides a viewpoint over the city and surrounding area.
The castles around Villaromagnano, such as the Tower of the Castle of Tortona and the Vargo Castle and Tower, are remnants of ancient fortifications that played crucial roles in the region's history. They often served as defensive structures, signal towers, and administrative centers, reflecting periods of conflict and feudal rule, including invasions by figures like Frederick Barbarossa.
Absolutely! The region offers various cycling routes that pass by or near historical sites. For example, you can find routes like the 'Scrivia River – Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia loop from Carbonara Scrivia' or the 'Monleale Giant Bench – Tower of the Castle of Tortona loop from Villaromagnano'. You can explore more options in the Cycling around Villaromagnano guide.
Yes, road cyclists can enjoy routes that incorporate local castles. The 'Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia – Tower of the Castle of Tortona loop from Tortona' is a moderate route that connects two significant historical sites. For more road cycling adventures, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Villaromagnano guide.
The Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia is a notable 14th-century fortress, particularly for its well-preserved multi-storey 'Dongione' (a type of keep). This architectural feature is rare in Piedmont, making its state of conservation and integrity stand out.
The Tower of the Castle of Tortona is a symbol of the city. While the ancient fortress was largely destroyed in 1801, the tower and a few ruins remain, offering a glimpse into its past. It's located within a large green park, providing a pleasant setting for a visit.
The Vargo Castle and Tower has a long history, dating back to at least 1157. While parts of the once-fortified structure are now used as a residence, the very visible main tower remains, preserving its historical character. It originally served as a signal tower in the Lombard era.
Gravel biking enthusiasts can find challenging routes in the area. While specific castle names aren't always in the route titles, the 'Vineyards of Monleale Alto – Coppi Climb Mural loop from Tortona' and other routes in the Gravel biking around Villaromagnano guide explore the hilly terrain where many historical fortifications are situated.
While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, visiting during spring or autumn generally offers pleasant weather for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities in the region. These seasons typically avoid the peak heat of summer and the colder, potentially wetter conditions of winter, making for a more comfortable experience.


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