Chiavenna Landi
The Castle of Chiavenna Landi
The Castle of Chiavenna Landi is an ancient medieval construction located in the hamlet of Chiavenna Landi, in the municipality of Cortemaggiore, Piacenza province in Italy. Belonging to several noble families, it has undergone several changes in ownership and transformations over the centuries.
History
The first traces of the castle date back to 1209, when the municipality of Piacenza reported the construction of a tower in the area of Chiavenna, built by Gislerio Landi. Over the years, the castle passed from hand to hand to various noble families, including the Cadamosti, Mandelli, Pallavicino, and Sanseverino. In 1597, Countess Ippolita Borromeo Sanseverino Barbiano acquired the property of the castle of Chiavenna Sottana, as well as a palace, some houses, and feudal rights over the disputed area. In 1648, the castle was sold to the Landi counts, who carried out important restoration and expansion works.
After some fluctuating events, the castle was sold to the family of Count Cigala Fulgosi, who then sold it to Mr. Livio Cattadori in 1941. In the following years, the building underwent a long period of abandonment and neglect. Only in 2004, the Ferri family acquired the property and decided to renovate it to transform it into a hotel and restaurant.
Structure
The Castle of Chiavenna Landi appears as a rectangular-shaped building, entirely made of brick, which shows signs of a smooth course of decay. In addition to the original tower, the castle appears to have been extended with the construction of some rustic buildings that have modified its original appearance. The tower is equipped with battlements, placed in the upper part to support a crenellated string course, which is protected by merlons and machicolations.
Conclusion
The Castle of Chiavenna Landi is an incredible example of a medieval fortress located in the province of Piacenza. This building has a very fascinating history, as it has seen the passing of various noble families, and at the same time, an appearance that keeps it in good condition. Its rectangular structure, entirely built of brick, is crowned by a tower equipped with battlements and is very suggestive. It has now been transformed into a hotel structure, but it remains a attraction of considerable interest, as it still retains its authentic position and ancient architecture.
