Santa Maria della Neve

Santa Maria della Neve is a castle in Schio featuring stone walls, a quadrangular tower, and a gabled structure that combines elements from different building phases. The site rises above the surrounding town and offers views across the region and its historic center from its elevated position.

The Maltraversi family built this fortress in the Middle Ages, and it later came under the control of the Ezzelini, Scaligeri, and Visconti rulers. These successive rulers left their marks on the structure, reflecting the region's shifting political landscape across centuries.

The structure evolved from a military fortress to include the Church of Santa Maria della Neve, which served as the motherhouse for the Gonfalone confraternity.

The site connects to the town via Via Petitti di Roreto, making it accessible from the city streets below. Visitors should expect steps and inclines as the castle sits on elevated ground.

Archaeological findings at the site point to ancient settlements established by Euganean or Venetian populations in prehistoric times. These discoveries show that this location has been occupied and used by people for thousands of years.