カロッソの洞窟・トップ8

A cannonball on the outer wall commemorates the battles and disputes surrounding the fort.

The climb that leads from Canelli to Gancia castle passes through splendid vines. This climb is steep at times and was tackled by the 2023 Giro d'Italia women. The Gancia castle is currently a private villa and cannot be visited: on the other hand, the panoramic views are magnificent.

The castle, configured in a single and imposing square volume, reveals evident architectural stylistic differences, originating from the layout choices undertaken in the 17th century by the legitimate owners. Starting from 1625, the Asinari nobles shared the rank of "counts of Costigliole" with the noble Verasis family. This complex was therefore divided between two feudal lords, who, with autonomous determination, gave rise to transformations and embellishments on subjective bases. The northern part of the manor, pertaining to the Asinari, retains the appearance derived from the interventions of the second half of the eighteenth century, duly inspired by the architectural canons propagated by Benedetto Alfieri. At the same time, the external aspect of the southern part, pertaining to the Verasis, constitutes an interesting example of neo-medieval stylistic re-proposition, dating back to the first decades of the 19th century.

Montegrosso d'Asti, a municipality located in the province of Asti, is a fascinating treasure chest in the heart of Piedmont. Located between the Langhe and Monferrato hills, the entire municipal area enjoys UNESCO recognition. Located just 15 km from Asti, Montegrosso proudly claims its winemaking tradition, with particular emphasis on the fine Barbera d'Asti DOCG. The feudal castle of Montegrosso d'Asti, built in 1134 on commission by the Marquis Bonifacio del Vasto, lord of Asti, majestically dominates the large surrounding hilly area.

The castle of Costigliole d'Asti, built in medieval times and subject to restoration over the centuries, is an important stage in the "Castelli Aperti" circuit of Lower Piedmont. In 1041, Arrigo III officially conferred possession on the Church of Asti. Subsequently, the castle passed under the authority of Bonifacio del Vasto. In 1198, it was Asti that took possession of the castle, establishing statutory regulations. Built on top of the Costigliole fortress, this mighty quadrangular castle, with a base of 60 meters on each side and a height of 25 meters, is one of the grandest in the Asti area.

small square with water point

Really very nice castle, Worth a visit

At the highest point of Costigliole d'Asti stands the Castle, whose origins date back to the Middle Ages. Over the centuries it has been the scene of many battles and struggles. At each of the four corners of the castle there is a tower and on the facade there are two statues depicting Aurelio and Giorgio Verasis Asinari, the former lords of the castle.