La Castiglia
Description
La Castiglia was the fortified residence of the Marquises of Saluzzo, who ruled the region from 1175 to 1548. Strategically located between France and the Duchy of Savoy, it played a key role in the struggle for control over Piedmont. Built between 1271 and 1286 by Marquis Tommaso I, the fortress replaced an older castle and was expanded over time to include towers, ramparts, and a moat.
In the 15th century, it was transformed into a noble residence under Marquis Tommaso III. Later, Ludovico II added the large circular tower in honor of his French wife, Margaret of Foix. After the fall of the Saluzzo dynasty in 1548, the castle was used by the French, then the Savoyards, serving various roles including military base, residence, hospital, and eventually a prison until 1992.
Restoration began in the 2000s, and today La Castiglia houses museums and cultural spaces. Highlights include the Museum of Chivalric Civilization, exploring the history of the marquisate, and the Prison Memory Museum, located in the old prison cells. A contemporary art collection (IGAV) is also on display.