There are an endless amount of famous castles in Italy, with strongholds and fortresses scattered from north to south. Hiding secrets and mysteries from years gone by and events that have marked the history of Italy and Europe, Italy's castles are visited every year by thousands of tourists who are eager to learn more about their history and mysteries.
If you're a history buff and want a cultural getaway in Italy this autumn, then now is your chance to stroll through the great halls and silent courtyards where lords, ladies and knights lived in ancient times. In order to help you to plan your next trip to Italy, it's time to discover 5 of the most beautiful castles in Italy. These Italian castles preserve centuries of history, and between the towers and walls, a fascinating journey to some of Italy's most emblematic places awaits you this autumn 2022.
Estense Castle, Ferrera
In the year 1385, the people of Ferrara, exhausted by famine, rose up against their rulers in a violent revolt. The revolt was so violent that Nicolas II d'Este, lord of the city, ordered the construction of the Great Castle of San Michele, which became the emblem of the power of the d'Este family and the symbol of the city. Nowadays this castle is known as Castello Estense, Estense Castle or Este Castle.
The town of Ferrara in the north of Italy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and during your visit to the castle, you can choose to be accompanied by two guides of excellence such as Lucrezia Borgia and Ludovico Ariosto. Not in the flesh, of course, but these animated tours, which take place with the presence of professional actors in costume, are ideal to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of Este Castle and the essence of the city of Ferrara.
The guides will gladly tell you all the secrets, plots and legends that enclose the castle walls, meaning you can discover everything you need to know about the most important characters in the history of this impressive castle in Italy.
Sant'Angelo Castle, Rome
A visit to Rome wouldn't be complete without a trip to Sant'Angelo Castle or Castel Sant'Angelo, a castle with its history intertwined with that of the city since its construction in 123 AD at the behest of Emperor Hadrian, known today as Hadrian's Mausoleum.
Built originally as a tomb, this famous Italian castle in Rome became the coveted seat of Roman families interested in controlling the city, until Pope Umberto V received the keys. From that moment, its destiny has been linked to that of popes, who often used the castle as a refuge in times of danger.
Discover the many mysteries of the Sant'Angelo Castle in Rome and don't miss out on the initiative "Il Castello Segreto" (the Secret Castle) that will allow you to visit Sant'Angelo Castle inside, including the castle's prisons, the Passetto di Borgo and the Stufetta di Clemente VII. Walk through over 2000 years of history in the halls of this spectacular building, one of the few from the Roman era that has survived intact to the present day.
Castelvecchio (Castle of San Martino), Verona
In the city of Romeo and Juliet you will be able to find the most important military monument of the lordship of Scaligera, Castelvecchio. Initially called the San Martino castle and nowadays known as Castelvecchio meaning "Old Castle", it was built during the 14th century by the Della Scala family to protect themselves from the popular uprisings and the numerous external enemies that settled in the city.
This castle may just seem to represent the image of a stereotypical castle, with traditional stone walls, towers, a moat that drew water from the River Adige, drawbridges and an impressive fortified bridge. However, this imposing Italian castle has been the scene of a large number of significant events that have transformed the history of the city of Verona and Italy throughout the centuries.
Nowadays, the castle is bome to the Castelvecchio Museum, restored in the 1950s by Carlo Scarpa, where you can admire works by Pisanello, Veronese, Tintoretto, Mantegna and other great artists, while taking in the medieval atmosphere that breathes over Castelvecchio.
Rocca Albornoziana, Spoleto
This is one of the least well known castles in Italy on our list, but is still worth a visit thanks to its fascinating story. On the hill of Sant'Elia, in the splendid town of Spoleto, lies the majestic Rocca Albornoziana. Between 1363 and 1367, Pope Innocent VI entrusted the construction of this imposing fortress to the powerful Spanish Cardinal Egidio Albornoz, from whom it takes its name.
During these years, Rome was re-established as the pontifical seat after its stay of more than 70 years in the French city of Avignon, and the pontiff wanted to erect a building that would be both a solid fortress and an elegant residential seat, a place that would be up to the high standards of the illustrious personalities it would welcome.
Until the 16th century, the fortress played an important role and sheltered popes, governors, lords and even Lucretia Borgia, who stayed there on several occasions. However, it experienced a period of decadence, until it later became a prison, from 1817 to 1892.
Its privileged position offers unbeatable views over the city of Spoleto and the green hills of Umbria, making this a must-visit castle in Italy. Walking along the "Giro della Rocca", a one-kilometre ring that surrounds the park and the fortress, you can admire all the elements that make up the spectacular fortress and its surroundings.
Caccamo Castle, Palermo
Caccamo, a characteristic medieval area in Palermo that rises to 520 metres above sea level, is home to one of the largest and best-preserved fortresses in Sicily. Caccamo Castle is one of Italy's most imposing castles, as it stands on a rock and dominates the surrounding landscape.
To reach this impressive sight, you have to walk along a staircase that will immediately make you imagine the knights who have trampled the same stones over the years. Born as a fortress to defend against enemy attacks, it has undergone work and changes over the centuries have transformed it into a rich residence for Sicilian nobles and families who have dominated the territory.
Tales and legends intertwine in the history of this Italian castle, where the ghost of Matteo Bonello, one of the first owners of the castle, is said to have roamed the halls of his old house since the moment in which he was brutally murdered by his arch-enemy, King William I, known as "the evil one". All of this makes this castle one of the best and most beautiful in Italy to visit.
Cherry blossoms in Italy 2025: the best places to visit
Cherry blossoms, known as "fiori di ciliegio" in Italian, are admired for their beauty and symbolism in Italy. While Italy may not be as famous for its cherry blossoms as countries like Japan, there are still several regions where these delicate flowers bloom, offering stunning displays during the springtime.
The 3 best natural spas in Valle d'Aosta, Italy
Valle d'Aosta in Italy is one of the most captivating destinations for those seeking a rejuvenating spa experience. Surrounded by natural beauty and thermal springs, the region encircled by the Alps offers more than one option for those looking to relax and recharge. Discover some of the best and most famous spas in Valle d'Aosta, where you can soak in a hot bath while touching the snow with your hands.
Ideas for renovating your home in Italy: tips and inspirations for every need
Buying a home in Italy and renovating it to suit your family's needs is a decision that should never be taken lightly. It’s all too easy to go from feeling overwhelmed to achieving complete satisfaction. This is because navigating the right approach to managing the renovation process without losing your sanity can be challenging. In this guide, we’ll offer simple ideas for renovating your home, breaking down each step you can take to turn your house into the home of your dreams.
Venice Carnival 2025: all the traditions and the full programme
The Venice Carnival is one of the most iconic and renowned events in the world. With its traditional masks, lavish costumes, and a unique atmosphere that captivates the entire city, it is one of the most beautiful carnival celebrations in the world. If you want to take part this year, here’s everything you need to know about the Venice Carnival 2025 and how to plan your visit.
Carnival in Italy 2025: the best and most famous places to celebrate
Carnival in Italy is a vibrant and lively celebration held in the weeks leading up to Lent, the 40-day period of fasting and reflection before Easter. As its dates are determined by the lunar calendar, Carnival varies each year but typically falls in February or March. When is Carnival in Italy in 2025? This year Carnival is Italy will take place during the last 2 weeks of February and in some cases in March as well.
Valentine's Day in Italy, Spain and Portugal: history and traditions
The countdown is on for Valentine's day 2025, celebrated all over the world on 14th February, and we're getting in the mood for the most romantic day of the year.
The Italian cities with the worst air quality according to Legambiente
The year 2030 is fast approaching, marking a significant shift in environmental sustainability within EU member states. Yet, according to Legambiente, there is still much to be done in Italy. The Mal'Aria 2025 report lists the worst Italian cities for air quality, identifying 25 cities that exceeded the legal limits for PM10 over the past 12 months. Here’s the list.