Castel Lusa, Medieval castle near Feltre, Italy.
Castel Lusa is a castle complex standing on a strategic hilltop at 405 meters elevation, protected by natural cliffs shaped by the Stien and Arnaut streams. The site contains multiple structures spanning different architectural periods and historical phases.
The first documented mention comes from 982 when Bishop Giovanni of Belluno placed the fortress under his control during territorial expansion. Under Venetian rule, it underwent significant change in 1421 when its purely defensive function gave way to residential use.
The site now hosts the Accademia del Melograno, an institution focused on studying and promoting material culture and applied arts. Visitors can see how the old fortress transformed into a center for cultural and artistic activities.
The castle grounds remain open for exploration with several hiking trails leading to nearby villages of Arson, Lasen, and Villabruna. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear since trails traverse elevated terrain with varying conditions.
Interior rooms were decorated with frescoes in the 15th century, and traces of these wall paintings remain visible today. These artworks show how wealthy families transformed the fortress into their private home during that era.
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