Rocca Isolani, Renaissance castle in Minerbio, Italy.
Rocca Isolani is a Renaissance castle in Minerbio featuring multiple defensive towers, thick walls, and detailed brick decorations on its exterior. The grounds also include the adjacent Villa Isolani and a historic meadow that together form a connected complex.
The castle was attacked and destroyed in 1527 by mercenary soldiers marching toward Rome, leading to major reconstruction work in 1550. Emperor Charles V stayed here in 1530 during his journey toward his coronation ceremony in Bologna.
Three rooms display frescoes painted between 1538 and 1542 by artist Amico Aspertini, showing mythological and historical scenes. These artworks shape how the interior looks today and reveal what artistic tastes mattered to the family during the Renaissance.
The castle is open to visitors through guided tours that show you around the buildings and interior spaces. It is best to check tour schedules in advance since appointments are usually arranged beforehand.
Villa Isolani was built specifically after the emperor's 1530 visit and served as a place for the family to display their status. Few visitors realize this building was created as a direct response to that imperial recognition of the estate.
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