Cigognola
The Castle of Cigognola: A Medieval Story
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in a medieval castle? In the town of Cigognola, in the province of Pavia, there is a castle that dates back to the early 13th century, and today I would like to tell you a bit about its history.
The Castle of Cigognola is located in the Oltrepò Pavese, on a hill that overlooks the Scuropasso valley and offers a strategic view over the Po Valley. In the past, it was owned by many noble families, including the Sannazzaro, the Beccaria, and the Visconti Aicardi Scaramuzza. In the 18th century, it passed to Barbara D'Adda, then to her son Alberico Barbiano di Belgiojoso. During the Napoleonic period, the properties were sold to the Gazzaniga and finally to the Brichetto Arnaboldi. Today, the castle is a private property and the headquarters of a winery.
The Structure of the Castle of Cigognola
The Castle of Cigognola is made up of various buildings that form a complex enclosed by a wall and a rampart. The central element is the high square-based battlement tower, with long corbels and Guelph and Ghibelline battlements, the result of a 19th century renovation. From the internal courtyard, which is polygonal in shape, the access staircase to the castle rises.
The architecture of the castle is truly fascinating. During your visit, you can admire the charm of the past, passing through the walls that were once traversed by nobles.
Conclusions
The visit to the Castle of Cigognola is a unique experience for lovers of medieval history and architecture. You can experience what it was like to be an Italian noble in a distant past, admiring the surrounding landscape and living the magic of a castle that has withstood the test of time. If you are in the area, do not miss the opportunity to visit this historical gem of the Oltrepò Pavese.
