Cairo Montenotte Castle

Cairo Montenotte Castle is a medieval fortress positioned on elevated terrain with stone walls showing multiple construction periods. The structure spans several sections built at different times, revealing how the fortification expanded and changed through the ages.

The fortress was originally built and controlled by the Del Carretto family until the early 13th century when Genoese rule took over the site. This transfer of power marked a major shift in who governed this strategically important position.

The fortress reflects how medieval Ligurian lords used stone structures to display power and control over the valley below. Walking through the ruins today shows how important this position was for the region's defense network.

The path to the castle starts from Cairo Montenotte's town center and follows marked routes up the hillside. You can park at the base and walk from there to reach the ruins at the top.

Underground passages once connected the castle to other defensive positions nearby, forming a larger network protecting the region. From the ruins you can see across the Val Bormida valley, which explains why this location was so important militarily.