Top 8 Castles around Tortona
Best castles around Tortona offer a journey through centuries of history. This historic town in Piedmont, Italy, is situated on strategic hills overlooking the Po Valley. The area features remnants of formidable defensive structures, from ancient Roman fortifications to medieval strongholds. These sites provide a tangible connection to the region's past and offer panoramic views.
Best castles around Tortona
- The most popular castles is Castello di Piovera, a castle that was built in the 14th century and later transformed…
Last updated: October 16, 2026
Castello di Piovera
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Via Balbi, 2/4, 15040 Piovera AL
castellodipiovera.it
3462341141
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Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia
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Tortona Castle Park
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Novi Ligure Castle
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Vargo Castle and Tower
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Vargo has had a castle known since 1157, the year of the invasions of Barbarossa's troops, but this construction was actually built as a signal tower in the Lombard era and is part of the so-called line of castles documented by Pertica.
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Vargo is a hamlet of the municipality of Stazzano (AL) at about 410 m above sea level. During the Middle Ages it was an imperial fiefdom under the Genoese families of Fieschi and then Doria. In 1797 it was annexed to the Ligurian Republic and after the fall of Napoleon it followed the fate of the province of Novi, becoming part of Piedmont in 1859 with the Rattazzi Decree. It was an independent municipality until 1928. Vargo has a castle known since 1157, the year of the invasions of the troops following Barbarossa, but this construction was actually born as a signal tower in the Lombard era and is part of the so-called line of castles. The town developed concentrically around the “castle”, rebuilt by the Fieschi family of Genoa, lords of Vargo since 1413: after the conspiracy against the said feudal lords, it was dismantled in 1442, and later passed to the Doria family in 1547. Next to what must have been the south-east walls, there is still an oratory dedicated to the Virgin of the Annunciation, while today the once fortified structure is partly used as a residence, and the very visible main tower, inside which are the living quarters of the last owner, has not been altered.
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Place of historical, architectural, cultural and tourist interest Via Balbi, 2/4, 15040 Piovera AL https://www.castellodipiovera.it/ 3462341141
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The castle of Carbonara Scrivia dates back to the 14th century or early 15th century, according to some documents found. The typical construction called "dongione" was built by Pierino Cameri on a previous property owned by the Curolo family, lords of Carbonara, who declined starting from 1246.
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The castle of Tortona was a castle that stood on the Savo hill, the most important of the seven on which, according to tradition, the city of Tortona was founded. The name refers to various defensive constructions that arose on the same site over the course of two millennia. Between the 8th and 5th centuries BC. archaeological investigations in fact place the foundation of a hillfort by the Ligurians.
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The castle of Novi Ligure is located near the historic center of Novi Ligure and was for centuries the extreme northern border of the Republic of Genoa. It is part of the "Open Castles" circuit of Lower Piedmont. Only the tower and some sections of the surrounding walls remain of the castle, which today delimit part of the large park. It was crowned by a Ghibelline battlement which has been lost but is still perceptible, despite the current covering with a tile roof.
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The Castle park is a large green area located in the hilly area of Tortona close to the historic centre. It is a place of memory of the city, having been the scene of historical events such as the siege of Frederick Barbarossa. At the top of the park is the Tower, the city's symbol, which together with a few ruins is evidence of the ancient fortress that overlooked the town until its destruction by Napoleon in 1801.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most historically significant castles in the Tortona area?
The Tower of the Castle of Tortona stands on Savo Hill, representing two millennia of defensive constructions from Ligurian to Roman times. It was a crucial stronghold and witnessed events like the siege by Frederick Barbarossa. The Castello di Pozzolo Formigaro is a medieval fortress with well-preserved Sforza and Visconti architecture, housing 15th-century frescoes and a Roman tomb. The Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia, a 14th-century castle-tower, is a rare example of medieval military architecture in Piedmont.
Are there any family-friendly castles to visit near Tortona?
Yes, the Castello di Piovera is an excellent choice for families. Built in the 14th century and later transformed into a residence, it is open to the public and features art workshops and an educational farm. The Tower of the Castle of Tortona is located within a public park, offering a peaceful green space for walks and panoramic views, which can also be enjoyable for families.
Which castles offer the best panoramic views of the region?
The Tower of the Castle of Tortona, situated on Savo Hill, offers panoramic views of the Po Valley. Similarly, the Novi Ligure Castle, with its imposing tower located in a park on a small hill, also provides great viewpoints.
What kind of unique architecture can I find among the castles in the Tortona area?
The Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia is a distinctive castle-tower from the 14th or early 15th century. It features a strongly inclined scarped base, a projecting sentry walk with corbels and machicolations, and two cylindrical corner turrets, making it a rare example of its typology in Piedmont. The Castello di Pozzolo Formigaro showcases well-preserved Sforza and Visconti architectural elements, including a carriage gate with postern and arrow slits for a drawbridge.
Can I explore castle ruins or sites that are now public parks?
Yes, the site of the ancient Castello di Tortona is now a public park. While largely in ruins, you can explore the green space, see the symbolic tower, and appreciate the strategic vantage point. It's ideal for walks and reflection on the city's past. The Novi Ligure Castle also features an imposing tower located within a park.
Are there any castles near Tortona that are still in use or house historical artifacts?
The Castello di Pozzolo Formigaro currently serves as the town hall. Inside, you can find historical artifacts, including 15th-century frescoes by Franceschino Boxilio and a 15th-century wooden Madonna with Child sculpture. A reconstructed Roman cremation tomb from the 2nd century A.D. is also on display.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The Tortona area offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes for touring bicycles, such as the 'Tortona to Viguzzolo' route, or more challenging options like the 'Dongione of Carbonara Scrivia – Coppi Climb Mural loop'. For road cycling, consider routes like 'Fausto Coppi House Museum – Historic Center of Garbagna loop'. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes like 'Vineyards of Monleale Alto – Coppi Climb Mural loop'. You can explore these and more on the Cycling around Tortona, Road Cycling Routes around Tortona, and Gravel biking around Tortona guide pages.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Tortona?
The region generally enjoys pleasant weather from spring through early autumn (April to October), making these months ideal for exploring the castles and their surroundings. During these periods, you can comfortably enjoy outdoor walks in the castle parks and appreciate the panoramic views. Winter visits are possible, but some sites might have reduced hours, and the weather can be colder.
Are there any castles that originated as signal towers?
Yes, Vargo Castle and Tower, located in Vargo (a hamlet of Stazzano), has roots as a signal tower during the Lombard era. It later developed into a castle around which the town grew, offering a glimpse into the evolution of defensive structures from early warning systems to more complex fortifications.
What makes the Castello di Piovera a unique visit?
The Castello di Piovera, built in the 14th century, was transformed into a residence and is now open to the public. It features unique historical details, including remains of black plaster on its facade from when it was painted black during mourning for Napoleon's death. It also hosts art workshops and an educational farm, providing a blend of history, art, and family activities.
How accessible are the castles for visitors?
The Tower of the Castle of Tortona is located within a public park, which generally offers easy access for walks. The Castello di Pozzolo Formigaro, now serving as the town hall, has parts accessible to the public, allowing visitors to explore its historical and artistic treasures within a civic setting. For specific accessibility details, it's advisable to check with individual sites.
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