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 name comes from a legend that Pontius Pilate stayed here on his way to Vienne, where Caligula had exiled him; in Roman times only a mansio stood in the village. The story gained credit after Édouard Aubert reported Roman coins and medals found among the ruins in 1846. A 17th-century work already placed Pilate at Nus, but in the upper castle instead.

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.

The castle's name comes from a legend that Pontius Pilate stayed here on his way to Vienne, where Caligula had exiled him. In Roman times only a mansio stood in the village. The tale gained credit after Édouard Aubert reported Roman coins and medals found among the ruins in 1846, though a 17th-century work already placed Pilate at the upper castle instead.