Castello di Calenzano, Medieval fortress in Calenzano, Italy
Castello di Calenzano is a stone fortress positioned on a hill between the Calvana Mountains and Morello Mountain, located roughly 14 kilometers north of Florence. The structure features two entrance gates and angular towers that reflect its defensive design.
The Guidi family transformed the wooden structure into a brick fortress in the late 1100s after receiving approval from Emperor Enrico VI. This change from wood to brick made the fortress stronger and more permanent.
The castle hosts the Municipal Museum of Historical Figurines, where you can see detailed miniature scenes depicting European and local life from different periods. These handcrafted models allow visitors to observe how people lived and worked in the past.
You can reach the fortress by car via the A1 highway, then following signs to the museum on site. Arriving early during peak seasons helps ensure parking availability.
Within the fortress grounds stands a 15th-century Palazzo del Podestà, now called Villa Arrighetti, which once served as a government residence. This well-preserved building still displays the refined architecture it had during its time as an administrative seat.
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