Riomaggiore Castle, Riomaggiore, Italy

The Castle of Riomaggiore was built in the 13th century by order of Marquis Turcotti, lord of Ripalta, and it is one of the most important historical edifices in Cinque Terre. Indeed, the construction works were initiated by the marquis in 1260, but they were completed by the Genovese, after a period during which the property passed to Nicolo Fieschi. Back then, the Republic of Genoa was interested in strengthening the defensive system of Riomaggiore, and the castle was part of this project.

The square-based castle overlooks the sea, and, at its turn, it is overtopped by two circular towers which flank the entrance. In time, the castle underwent significant structural alterations, not to mention it was also used as a cemetery (in the early 19th century). The Oratory of Saint Rocco is located in the vicinity of the castle. At present, the edifice is used to cultural purposes, being home to sundry events. It can be reached by climbing the abrupt road which leads from the train station to the castle. It is also accessible from the courtyard of the Church of Saint John the Baptist of Riomaggiore. The castle is also locally known as Castellazzo of Cerrico.

References:

cinque-terre-tourism.com

User Reviews

Patrick OReilly (15 days ago)
A magical place with charming century old buildings located in the cinque terra area of Italy. The shops and markets were wonderful to see. A great place for photos and seafood. The area is known for their pesto and sardine dishes.

Jay Bailey (37 days ago)
The walk-up from the main station was amazing. Every turn was a photo opportunity. The walk down, past main chruch, brings you onto the top of the main high street, exposing lovely restaurants and shops on the walk down

Letizia Pallone (2 months ago)
I loved it. Awesome view ❤️

Kevin Markman (2 months ago)
Nice hike up to the Castello and beautiful views. A small little site in the gem of a little town.

LJ Decker (17 months ago)
Good views but the castle itself is meaningless and nothing special. It's kind of off the tourist path so if you want to have a nice little hike to get away, by all means, do that. But the castle itself charges for entry and there's no reason to go in.

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Photo from Flickr, copyright Bela Lindtner

Historic Site of the week

Gravensteen

The Gravensteen is a castle in Ghent originating from the Middle Ages. The name means 'castle of the counts' in Dutch. Arnulf I (918–965), Count of Flanders, was the first to fortify this place, building a medieval bastion on this high sand dune, naturally protected by the river Leie and its marshy banks. This bastion consisted of a central wooden building and several surrounding buildings, also in wood.

In the early 11th century, the wooden building was replaced by a stone residence, consisting of three large halls that made up three storeys, connected by a stone stairwell. The monumental stone staircase, the light openings, the fireplaces built into the walls and the latrines were signs of considerable luxury and comfort in those days. There was probably also a tower.

Riomaggiore Castle

Address

Details

More Information

Rating

Interesting Sites Nearby

User Reviews

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Finest Norman castles in Italy

Exploring the History of Northern Poland

Discovering Slovenia's Historic Wonders

Historic Site of the week

Gravensteen