Montalto Dora Castle, Montalto Dora, Italy

Montalto Dora Castle was built in the first half of the 12th century on top of Monte Crovero reflecting in the waters of Lake Pistono, being first mentioned under the name of castrum monsalti in a document dating from 1140.

During the 14th and 15th century, the castle was modified and enlarged to better serve from a defensive viewpoint.

In the 19th century, the castle was renovated under the direction of architects Carlo Nigra and Alfredo d'Andrade, who also used it as a model and source of inspiration when designing the Borgo Medioevale in Turin.

In 1963 the Castle became property of the Allioni of Brondello family. From 1965 to 1985 they proceeded to restore the buildings inside the walls, and to enhance the park.In the last years, the current owners have gone on completing a functional restoration of internal and external spaces, along with several enhancing works for the whole park and its vegetation.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Teresa M. Curry (15 months ago)
Wow

R Dracsanu (2 years ago)
Nice. I didn't find a trail that would take me directly to the castle. Excellent panorama

Goran “Ciggy Smalls” Ciganovic (2 years ago)
Wicked cool

Enrico Ripamonti (2 years ago)
Those who travel along the Francigena in the direction of Aosta meet it before descending to Montalto: the castle seems to demand all the attention of the traveler. Traveling along the Pistono lake ring, it can be seen more closely and it is clear that it has benefited from extensive restoration work. On the other hand, its life was long (perhaps it was born in 1000 as a watchtower) and troubled, just think of the devastation it suffered in the 1600s from the French. Thanks to the owners, however, it has returned majestic and spectacular (it also inspired Giacosa) with the square keep, the mighty round tower, the three corner belfredi and the crenellated walls. Unfortunately it seems to be visited only occasionally.

Marco Brioschi (3 years ago)
The castle would be 10 stars. Very well kept. Too bad it is closed and there are no timetables, to be able to visit it. Very beautiful panorama in the distance the mountains, lakes and various villages. Suggestive!

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