Castello superiore di Arnad, Medieval castle in Arnad, Italy
Castello superiore di Arnad is a castle ruin positioned on a natural rocky outcrop above the village of Ville. The structure still shows Romanesque architectural features and overlooks the historic Via Francigena trade route.
The castle first appears in documents from 1207 mentioning a chapel dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene and Saint Michael the Archangel. It served as a stronghold for local rulers across the centuries and shaped the region's power dynamics.
The central part displays medieval battlements and large fireplaces from the 14th century. Coats of arms painted on the walls tell the story of families who ruled here and wanted to show their power.
The castle remains in private ownership and does not allow public access to the interior. Visitors can still view the exterior and its position above the valley from nearby vantage points.
The castle contains a rare tower built specifically for latrines, inspired by similar structures in the Palace of the Popes in Avignon. This type of construction was unusual for the medieval period and shows a connection between this local fortress and larger European centers.
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