Best castles around Spineto Scrivia offer insights into the rich history of the Piedmont region. This area, nestled within the Scrivia and Borbera Valleys, features a landscape shaped by historical fortifications. Visitors can explore various medieval structures that once served defensive purposes, reflecting centuries of regional heritage.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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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 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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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 region boasts several historically significant fortifications. The Tower of the Castle of Tortona is a symbolic landmark, representing an ancient fortress destroyed by Napoleon. The Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia is a notable 14th-century fortress, recognized for its well-preserved 'Dongione' (dungeon) and historical defensive system. Additionally, the Vargo Castle and Tower has roots as a Lombard-era signal tower, later rebuilt by the Fieschi family.
Yes, the Castello di Pozzolo Formigaro is categorized as family-friendly. This 14th-century castle, now serving as the municipal seat, allows visitors to see 15th-century frescoes and a unique wooden Madonna statue inside.
Yes, the Tower of the Castle of Tortona is located in a large green area on a hill, offering scenic views. The ruined Sorli Castle, though not in the immediate guide, sits at 661 meters and provides extensive views of the plain stretching from Alessandria to Tortona, including the Scrivia and Borbera Valleys.
The area around Spineto Scrivia offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, MTB trails, and cycling routes. For example, an easy cycling route, 'Scrivia River – Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia loop', passes by the Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia.
While specific trails directly to every castle aren't detailed, the region has many hiking routes. For instance, there's an 'easy Hiking loop from Carbonara Scrivia' which could be combined with a visit to the Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia.
The Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia is an excellent example of medieval military architecture, featuring a distinctive 'Dongione' (dungeon) and a historical defensive system with a fortified enclosure, moat, and access gates. The Tower of the Castle of Tortona also represents the remnants of an ancient fortress.
Specific parking details for each castle are not provided in the guide. However, the Tower of the Castle of Tortona is located within a large green area, suggesting potential parking availability nearby. It is advisable to check local signage or official websites for parking information before your visit.
The region's castles can be enjoyed throughout the year. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant weather for exploring historical sites and combining visits with outdoor activities like hiking or cycling. While winter visits are possible, some outdoor areas might be less accessible depending on weather conditions.
Yes, the Castello di Pozzolo Formigaro is a 14th-century castle that currently serves as the municipal seat, allowing visitors to explore its historical interiors while it remains a functional building.
While specific dog-friendly policies for castle interiors are not detailed, many outdoor areas and parks surrounding the castles, such as the large green area around the Tower of the Castle of Tortona, are generally suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash. Always check local regulations.
The castles are generally accessible by car, with many located in or near towns like Tortona and Carbonara Scrivia. Public transport options may vary, so planning your route in advance is recommended. Some castles, like the Tower of the Castle of Tortona, are close to historic town centers.
The Tower of the Castle of Tortona is a symbolic landmark for the city. It stands as a testament to an ancient fortress that once overlooked the town until its destruction by Napoleon in 1801. The castle park itself is a place of historical memory, having witnessed events like the siege of Frederick Barbarossa.
The Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia is a 14th-century fortress particularly known for its well-preserved 'Dongione' (dungeon), a multi-storey structure with strong vertical development. Its historical defensive system, including a fortified enclosure, moat, and two access gates, also makes it a compelling site for those interested in medieval military architecture.


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