Castello di Casarasco, Castle in Val di Nizza, Italy
Castello di Casarasco is a medieval stone fortress on a hilltop in the heart of Val di Nizza in the Oltrepò Pavese region, featuring thick walls and tall defensive towers. The northern wing retains its original design with a large square tower and a pointed archway leading into what was once the main courtyard, where soldiers and supplies were managed.
The castle was built before the year 1000 by the Obertenghi family as a watchtower over the valley and was later taken over by the Malaspina family, who added a guard tower. The Malaspinas strengthened the fortifications over centuries and left their lasting imprint on the structure.
The Malaspina family left their mark here through a carved stone shield bearing thorny branches and a cross, still visible on the castle walls today. This emblem reminds visitors of the noble lineages who shaped this place across the centuries.
The Castello di Casarasco is privately owned but can be viewed from outside while following the Sentiero delle Fontane, a 7 kilometer walking trail through forests, small stone villages, and natural springs. The path brings you close to the ancient walls and offers shaded rest spots along natural water sources throughout the route.
Local legend tells of Saint Alberto performing a miracle here, restoring speech and hearing to a deaf and mute son of a castle lord. This story has been passed down through generations, making the site a place where faith and tradition remain woven into the place's identity.
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