Montestrutto Castle

Montestrutto Castle sits on a rocky hilltop above Settimo Vittone, combining a ninth-century tower with neo-Gothic additions built in later periods. The building shows different architectural layers that tell the story of its evolution over time.

The castle began as a defensive tower protecting a Benedictine monastery and underwent multiple destructions and rebuilding between the 1500s and 1900s. These cycles of destruction and restoration shaped the structure we see today.

The castle hosted musicians during the 1920s, welcoming violin master Rosario Scalero and his students, including the future composer Leonard Bernstein. This period shaped its identity as a place where art flourished.

The castle sits about 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Turin and now operates as accommodation, allowing guests to stay overnight within its medieval walls. This location makes it accessible for travelers exploring the Piedmont region.

Inside, an entrance hall features historical frescoes while a panoramic staircase winds up to gardens that overlook the surrounding Piedmont landscape. This design creates a striking connection between the interior spaces and the views beyond.