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Residences of the Marquise

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Monferrato is not only famous for its excellent wine and cuisine, but also for the castles that once belonged to nobles who lived in the area. This itinerary is a quick trip through the fascinating manors of Camino, Gabiano, and Murisengo.


Visualizza Le residenze dei duchi in una mappa di dimensioni maggiori

The castle of Camino will impress you with its grand park planted with centuries-old trees and angles of the property blooming with flowers. Its foundation goes back to the 10th century and was the property of the Bishops of Asti until 1200, upon which it passed to the Dukes of Monferrato. Today the castle is a historical residence with a bed and breakfast and twelve luxurious rooms. With spacious salons, terraces, and hidden courtyards, this palace is enchanting. During the year, it hosts various events and shows of different genres, and the castle owner also cultivates vineyards that produce high quality wines.

Continuing on towards Gabiano, follow in the direction of Chivasso and enjoy the spectacle of the Po Valley and its Fluvial Park. The beautiful rivers and streams of the Turin area serve as passageways of bird migration, and testimony of the strong ties man once had with this river land can be observed to this day.

Arrive in the vicinity of a medieval hamlet dominated by the Castle of Gabiano, which also overshadows a park and its vineyards. This fortress is ancient, with historical documents indicating its existence to as far back as the 8th century. In 1164, the ownership was passed from Federico Barbarossa to the Marquise Guglielmo II of Monferrato, and over the course of the centuries was contended by various lineages.

Visit the salons, inner courtyards with their characteristic wells, the great tower, and the emporium where it’s possible to purchase wines produced at the castle. In fact, the castle holds one of the smallest DOC areas in all of Italy. Its wine Riserva “A Matilde Giustiniani” is obtained from Barbera grapes grown in historical vineyards.

Gabiano is also the father of another small DOC (Denomination of Controlled Origins), likewise of the Barbera grape: Rubino of Cantavenna, producers of which can be counted on one hand. Three suites in the Casa Caccia, or Hunting House, adjacent to the castle made the mansion a refuge of quite some charm.

Finally, the last stop is the castle of Murisengo, another residence of the Dukes of Monferrato. Don’t be fooled by the seemingly modest exterior: over the centuries, the façade has lost its original plan while the interior remains fabulously luxurious. The castle’s sumptuous rooms are filled with precious and artistic objects, Baroque decorations, and a rich armory. We suggest you ask at the Municipal center for information about upcoming cultural events held in the castle in the magnificent rooms, as it’s worth organizing a visit for the occasion.

Last modified onMonday, 25 February 2013 12:36
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