Castel Paterno, Medieval castle in Faleria, Italy
Castel Paterno is a medieval castle standing on an isolated tuff hill that overlooks the Treia Valley at the confluence of the Mola and Stabia streams. The site is surrounded by dense forest and preserves traces of different periods of use from ancient times through the Middle Ages.
The castle developed over the remains of pre-Roman burials and became a fortified settlement in the early Middle Ages. Emperor Otto III chose it as his residence in 1002 and died there, giving the site considerable prestige.
The castle remains contain ancient chamber tombs from the pre-Roman period that were later converted into rock dwellings during the Middle Ages. This transformation shows how earlier structures served different purposes across centuries.
Access is through an unpaved road that borders the Macchie di Faleria forest, located about 5 kilometers from Faleria town center. The path is not paved and runs through wooded terrain, so appropriate footwear and time for exploration are necessary.
Local legends speak of hidden treasure left by Emperor Otto III, consisting of a golden hen with seven chicks. This tale has drawn treasure seekers to the ruins across the centuries.
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