Paderna Castle, Medieval castle in Pontenure, Italy
Paderna Castle is a rectangular fortress in Pontenure with four square towers of varying heights, sturdy defensive walls, and a water-filled moat running around it. The design shows a layout built specifically to stop people from breaking through its defenses.
The fortress first appears in documents from the 9th century and went through major changes in 1453 when the Marazzani family from Rimini took over the property. This takeover marked the start of a new chapter in how the place was used and maintained.
The Church of Santa Maria inside the castle uses ancient Roman columns in its design and follows precise geometric principles. This blend of ancient and medieval elements shows how different periods left their mark on this location.
The castle grounds are open to visitors on weekend mornings from March through October, and you can explore the old prisons and weapons storage areas. Allow enough time to walk through the different parts of the fortress and take in the details.
Every October, the castle hosts a showing of rare plant varieties and old fruit types that are barely grown anymore. The event draws many visitors interested in traditional varieties that have nearly disappeared from use.
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