Castle of Albisola Superiore, Medieval castle on hilltop in Albisola Superiore, Italy
Castle of Albisola Superiore sits atop Castellaro hill where two valleys converge, displaying an unusual ship-shaped outer wall. The structure spans two levels and commands views across the surrounding landscape.
The fortification started as a Roman watchtower monitoring ship arrivals before becoming a strategic position during conflicts between Guelph and Ghibelline factions. These struggles shaped the structure over generations.
The fortress displays medieval defensive design with its distinctive ship-shaped layout visible from different angles. Residents have long regarded this structure as a defining landmark of their community.
Visitors can reach the fortress via a walking path starting near San Nicolo church, which climbs through the surrounding hills. The site is easier to explore during dry weather since the path crosses open terrain.
Local stories tell of an underground passage that once connected the fortress to remains of a Roman villa called Alba Docilia. This passage was sealed during road construction work and no longer exists.
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