Castles near Salerano Canavese are found within the historic Canavese region, known for its diverse landscape of hills and glacial lakes. This area offers a blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural significance. Salerano Canavese itself features structures with castle origins, providing insights into the region's past. The surrounding area, including Ivrea, presents a variety of historical and architectural points of interest.
Last updated: June 30, 2026
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Nestled in the rolling hills of Morena Ovest, the village of San Martino enchants visitors with its ancient charm and evocative atmosphere. Its history has its roots in the distant 11th century, when the construction of the majestic Torre-porta maggiore marked the beginning of the settlement. It was a fortified village, surrounded by mighty walls and moats that guaranteed its defense. The walls, made with pebbles arranged in a herringbone pattern and reinforced by megaliths still visible on the north side, testify to the construction skill of the time. Along the perimeter of the walls, there were at least six tower-gates, smaller in size than the main tower, which allowed access to the village. The village of San Martino was long linked to the powerful family of the Counts of San Martino, who exercised control over it for centuries. Their presence is evidenced by numerous historic buildings, including the castle, now in ruins, which dominated the village from above.
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Passage made during Erratico Gravel
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The Castello di Ivrea, also known as the “Castello dalle rosse torri” (Castle of the Red Towers), is an impressive medieval castle that towers over the town of Ivrea in the Piedmont region. The castle was built in 1358 by order of Amedeo VI of Savoy, also known as the Conte Verde. It served as a symbol of Savoyard rule over Ivrea and Canavese, mainly for defensive purposes. It stands on a hill overlooking the town and the road to the Valle d’Aosta. The castle has four imposing round towers that characterize its structure. These towers, each 34 meters high, are located next to the cathedral and the bishop’s palace. The castle walls were once surrounded by a wide moat, and the only access was via a drawbridge. From the battlements, defenders could throw stones and boiling water at attackers. Unfortunately, the interior of the castle was completely dismantled and altered when it served as a political and criminal prison from 1700 to 1970. Once a stronghold of power and defense, the castle was transformed by time and the changing needs of society.
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Castle home to hotel/restaurant
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Ivrea, the cradle of the Olivetti company and its famous typewriters, is located on the right bank of the Dora Baltea, west of the Serra di Ivrea, the largest moraine wall in Europe. The silhouette of a 14th century castle rises above the city. In the upper town there is also the originally Romanesque Duomo, which was renovated in the 19th century. On the other bank of the Dora, near Via Jervis, the old Olivetti factories have been converted into Musea dell'Architecture Moderna.
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So much history in just one castle. In the city of Ivrea the large Castle was once the residence of the Savoys, before becoming a military garrison. In addition to this, it was then transformed and used as a prison. The location is very strategic as is the very characteristic structure.
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The imposing Castle of Ivrea, located in the upper part of the city, is called by Giosuè Carducci the castle "with the red towers".
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Stage of the Via Francigena. Worth a visit
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In Salerano Canavese, you can explore the Castello San Giuseppe, which evolved from a Roman outpost to a hermitage, a military fortification, and now a hotel-restaurant with panoramic views. Another significant site is the Complex of Sant'Urbano, featuring a medieval circular tower that is a remnant of an 11th-century castle, offering a glimpse into the region's early history.
Yes, the broader Canavese region boasts several impressive castles. You can visit the Ivrea Historic Centre and the Dora Baltea Riverside, which features the silhouette of a 14th-century castle. Another must-see is the Castello di Pavone Canavese, known for its fairy-tale appearance, and the Montestrutto Castle and Church, a 20th-century castle built in medieval style on ancient ruins.
The castles in and around Salerano Canavese often offer stunning panoramic views. For instance, the Castello San Giuseppe, located on Monte Albagna, provides lush views over the surrounding glacial lakes and countryside. Many other castle sites, due to their strategic elevated positions, offer excellent vantage points of the Canavese landscape.
The region around Salerano Canavese is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking, cycling, and mountain biking routes. For hiking, explore options like the 'I 5 lakes in the Riserva dei Laghi di Ivrea' loop or the 'Lake Sirio and the Dancing Lands Loop'. Cyclists might enjoy the 'From Ivrea to Lake Viverone' tour. You can find more details and routes on the Hiking around Salerano Canavese, Cycling around Salerano Canavese, and MTB Trails around Salerano Canavese guide pages.
Many of the historical sites and castles in the Canavese region can be enjoyed by families. Exploring the Ivrea Historic Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers an engaging historical experience. The fairy-tale appearance of Castello di Pavone Canavese can also be captivating for children. Additionally, the natural surroundings provide opportunities for easy walks and picnics.
The Canavese region, including Salerano Canavese, is beautiful throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring and hiking, with vibrant foliage or blooming landscapes. Summer is ideal for enjoying the lakes and outdoor activities, though it can be warmer. Winter visits can be charming, especially if you appreciate a quieter atmosphere, but some facilities or routes might have reduced accessibility.
Yes, some castles in the region have been converted into accommodation. The Castello San Giuseppe in Salerano Canavese operates as an elegant bed and breakfast and hotel-restaurant. Additionally, the Castello di Pavone Canavese is a 4-star hotel, offering a unique opportunity to stay in a historic setting.
History enthusiasts will appreciate the deep historical layers of the region. The Complex of Sant'Urbano in Salerano Canavese, with its medieval tower, provides insights into ancient military and religious history. The Ivrea Castle, known for its 'red towers', has a rich past as a Savoy residence and later a prison. The San Martino fortified village also offers ruins of an ancient castle and walls dating back to the 11th century.
Parking availability varies by location. For castles that are now hotels or tourist attractions, dedicated parking is often provided. For historical sites within towns like Ivrea, you'll typically find public parking lots. It's advisable to check specific castle websites or local information for the most accurate parking details before your visit.
Yes, many castles, especially those converted into hospitality venues, have their own restaurants or cafes. The Castello San Giuseppe, for example, includes a restaurant. In towns like Ivrea, you'll find a variety of cafes and restaurants within walking distance of the historic center and its castle. For other sites, local villages often have dining options nearby.
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of history, natural beauty, and unique experiences. The strategic hilltop locations offer stunning views, and the architectural diversity, from ancient ruins to beautifully restored hotels, provides a rich cultural journey. The komoot community has shared over 33 photos and given more than 140 upvotes, highlighting the visual appeal and historical significance of these sites.
Public transport options exist, primarily connecting major towns like Ivrea. From Ivrea, local buses or taxis might be available to reach some of the more rural castle sites. However, for maximum flexibility, especially when visiting multiple castles or those in less accessible locations, traveling by car is often recommended. Always check local bus schedules for specific routes.


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