Zumelle Castle, Medieval fortress in Borgo Valbelluna, Italy

Zumelle Castle is a medieval fortress in Borgo Valbelluna located on a hill near the Terche river, featuring a 36-meter-high square tower with five levels. These levels connect through wooden stairs and contain different exhibition areas inside.

The site began as a Roman military outpost around 46-47 AD established to control the important trade route Via Claudia Augusta Altinate. By the 6th century it was occupied by Gothic forces and later transformed into a medieval castle.

The castle's name is tied to a legend recorded by the Belluno historian Giorgio Piloni: the twins born to Genseric and Eudosia, from the Italian gemelle. Inside stands the small chapel of San Lorenzo, built over an earlier Byzantine sacellum, with a sarcophagus and burials. A medieval-style inn and restaurant now occupy the restored complex.

The castle is reached by car and has a car park; the site includes a medieval-style inn and restaurant. Entry is subject to a fee. The complex has a rock-cut ditch and the 11th-century keep and the chapel of San Lorenzo inside.

The castle's name comes from twins born to the Gothic leader Genseric and a lady at court during the 6th century occupation. This story connects the Gothic and Roman past of the place in an unexpected way.