Gropparello
Gropparello Castle: a suggestive fortress full of history
Gropparello Castle, located in the province of Piacenza, is one of the most suggestive and charming places in the area. The castle stands on a peak of ophiolites and dominates a deep and suggestive gorge crossed by the Vezzeno stream.
The origin of the name
The name Gropparello derives from the root 'grop', which refers to the mountain formation on which the castle stood. Originally, the castle was known as "rocca di Cagnano", which instead indicated the castle and the surrounding territory. However, despite the toponym not being originally associated with the castle, its origin is linked to the Lombard manor.
A long and eventful history
Gropparello Castle is an ancient fortification built in 789 on a previous Roman castrum. In 810, Charlemagne assigned jurisdiction of the area to Bishop Giuliano II of Piacenza, and in 840 the manor was assigned to the bishop's table of Piacenza.
Over the centuries, Gropparello Castle has undergone numerous attacks and battles. In 1255, during the disputes between Guelphs and Ghibellines, the castle was taken by the Ghibelline troops of Oberto II Pallavicino. However, shortly after the castle was recaptured by the Guelphs and the defense systems were restored.
Legend has it that in the late 13th century, the consort of the lord of the castle, Rosania Fulgosio, was walled alive in one of the castle rooms by her own husband, Pietrone da Cagnano.
In the 14th century, the castle passed to its heirs thanks to Bishop Filippo Fulgosio of Piacenza.
Present day and tourism
Today, Gropparello Castle is part of the circuit of the Association of Castles of the Duchy of Parma, Piacenza and Pontremoli and can be visited all year round.
Through the Knights' Trail, visitors can see the castle along with the surrounding nature and valley. The castle can also be visited inside, with various rooms from different eras and a wide collection of historical weapons and armor.
Every year, Gropparello Castle organizes numerous activities for families, such as the Treasure Hunt and educational workshops. The Castle is also a popular wedding venue and attracts visitors from all over Italy and beyond.
Conclusions
Gropparello Castle represents an unmissable stop for all lovers of history, architecture and nature. The suggestive fortress, immersed in a unique atmosphere, tells stories of battles, betrayals and adventures. Thanks to its strategic location and history, the Castle is one of the most representative places in northern Italy and deserves to be visited at least once in a lifetime.
