Scipione Castle, Medieval castle in Salsomaggiore Terme, Italy
Scipione Castle is a fortress on a hilltop with reinforced walls, cylindrical towers, and a historic entrance that once featured a drawbridge. The structure comprises multiple buildings around a central courtyard, with several halls containing decorative architectural elements inside.
The fortress was founded in 1025 by Adalberto Pallavicino to protect valuable salt springs in the surrounding area. It served as an important stronghold in the region for centuries until power shifted in the 16th century.
The interior features frescoes from the 15th to 17th centuries, fireplaces decorated with heraldic shields, and ornate wooden ceilings throughout the rooms. These decorations reflect the wealth and power of those who once ruled here.
Visitors can explore the courtyard, historic entrances, and interior halls that are open to the public today. Weekday visits offer a more relaxed experience, as weekends tend to attract more people to the site.
During World War II, the castle served as a detention facility for prisoners and later as a deportation processing point. This dark chapter is now an important part of its history that visitors should know about.
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