Langhe castles, between history and modernity
In addition to wine, the Langhe is famous for the various castles located here. Many of these castles were built in the Middle Ages and were used as noble residences and fortifications. Some of the most famous castles include Grinzane Cavour Castle, Barolo Castle, and Pollenzo Castle. Today, many of these castles house restaurants, hotels and museums, and are popular with tourists visiting the region. If you are planning a weekend in the Langhe, you cannot miss a visit to these magnificent structures.
The Castle of Grinzane Cavour
Grinzane Cavour Castle was built in the 13th century as a medieval fortress and was later used as a noble residence. In the 19th century, the castle was purchased by the Cavour family, a prominent family of the time, and Camillo Cavour, one of the leaders of the Unification of Italy, lived and worked there for many years. The castle currently houses a wine cellar, a restaurant, a cooking school and a museum dedicated to the life and work of Camillo Cavour. In addition, the castle is famous for its panoramic view of the Langhe countryside.
The Castle of Barolo
The Castle of Barolo is a castle located in the town of the same name; it was built in the 19th century by Marquis Falletti di Barolo for use as a noble residence. The castle was designed in the neoclassical style by architect Alessandro Antonelli, known for designing the Mole Antonelliana in Turin. The castle now houses the Barolo Museum, which celebrates the history and culture of Piedmont’s most famous wine.
The Castle of Pollenzo
Pollenzo Castle is a castle located in the town of Bra and was built in the 19th century by the Roero family as an aristocratic residence and was later acquired by the Royal family of Savoy. The castle was used as the summer residence of the royal family and as a meeting place for important political and cultural figures of the time. Over the years the castle has also been used as a school and a military hospital. The castle currently houses the University of Gastronomic Sciences. The castle is famous for its architectural beauty and its panoramic position over the Langhe countryside.
Learn more about Piedmont’s wine-growing areas.
