Princes of Acaja Castle
Description
The Castle of Fossano, symbol of the city, stands behind Via Roma and is now surrounded by a large square. Built in 1332 by the Acaja family for defense, it later became a residence under the House of Savoy around 1485. Over time, it evolved from a fortress with four towers and a moat to a noble palace.
Its courtyard shows layers of history: a 15th-century portico with Savoy symbols, remnants of frescoes, and a wing once used by the Duke. By the late 1600s, the castle was used as a prison, notably for Waldensians. The basements, kept cool by an ice house, were used for food storage and connected directly to the kitchens.
The Hall of Grotesques, painted by Flemish artist Giovanni Caracca in the late 1500s, features classical mythological figures, mottos, birds, and the ducal coats of arms. The towers and walkways, once wooden, are now stone and offer panoramic views of the city and Alps.
Since the 1980s, the castle hosts Fossano’s civic library and archive, preserving documents from the 13th century, including the “Green Book” and royal edicts. It also houses the Mario Vallauri collection, over 4,000 rare books on languages, medicine, and travel, accessible to scholars.
Today, the castle is a cultural landmark and hosts major events, including the historical “Giostra dell’Oca,” commemorating the 1585 visit of Charles Emmanuel I and Infanta Catherine Michelle.