Castello di Pilato, Medieval castle in Nus, Italy
Castello di Pilato is a rectangular fortress in Nus featuring two corner towers and three thick stone walls, with remnants of a large fireplace visible in the northern section. Access to the rampart walkway and cylindrical watchtowers is provided by a modern staircase built into the southern side of the structure.
The Lords of Nus built this fortress in the 14th century along the Via Francigena, making it one of the oldest feudal holdings in Aosta Valley. Its strategic position on this pilgrimage route made it a key control point in the region.
The castle displays Romanesque architectural features, notably in an ornately carved window frame set into the western wall. This element reveals the craftsmanship of the period and how such fortifications also provided living comfort.
The best time to visit is during dry weather, when the paths around the ruins are most accessible. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear since stones can be uneven and the modern staircase on the southern side is steep.
During excavations in 1846, ancient coins and Roman medals were discovered among the ruins, suggesting a fascinating connection to the legend of Pontius Pilate during his exile. These artifacts raise intriguing questions about the site's deeper historical roots and its link to ancient travel routes.
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