The Castle of Chignolo Po is a majestic monument with a rich history that spans over a millennium.
It is located in the Province of Pavia in the Italian region Lombardy, located about 45 km southeast of Milan and about 25 km east of Pavia.
Known as the “Versailles of Lombardy,” this castle has evolved from a formidable medieval fortress into a stunning 18th-century palace.
A Fortress of Kings and Monks
The oldest part of the castle is the Great Tower, believed to have been built by King Luitprand around 740 C.E.
This tower, perched on high ground, offered strategic views of the Po River and the Via Francigena-Romea, a vital route connecting Northern Europe with Rome.
The tower initially served as a fortress, so it was crucial in defending the region.
In 910 C.E., King Berengar I granted the fortress to the Benedictine monks of the nearby Abbey of Saint Cristina.
This transfer marked the beginning of the fortress’s transformation into a religious stronghold.
By 990, the Abbey, including its castle, had become a significant stopover on the Via Francigena, as noted by Sigeric, the Archbishop of Canterbury.
Medieval and Renaissance Transformations
In the 13th century, the castle became one of Lombardy’s most important fiefdoms.
It was initially governed by the Pusterla family until their downfall in 1340.
The Federici and later the Cusani families succeeded them.
In the 17th century, significant renovations took place, transforming the medieval fortress into a noble residence.
The moat was drained, the wooden drawbridge was replaced with a brick one, and new towers and balconies were added.
The castle’s interiors were also embellished with magnificent stuccoes and paintings by artists from the school of Tiepolo.
Cardinal Agostino Cusani Visconti played a pivotal role in the castle’s transformation between 1700 and 1730.
As the Pope’s Ambassador to Venice and Paris, he commissioned architect Giovanni Ruggeri to expand and beautify the castle.
The result was a splendid baroque palace adorned with gardens, statues, and fountains.
Hall of the Four Seasons
The Hall of the Four Seasons is a stunning room in the Castle of Chignolo Po.
Its ceiling features a beautiful painting that depicts the four seasons in vibrant colors.
This elegant room was designed for gatherings and celebrations.
Frescoes
The frescoes in the Castle of Chignolo Po were created by artists from the Tiepolo school.
These beautiful wall and ceiling paintings adorn many rooms throughout the castle.
They feature intricate designs and vivid scenes that bring the castle’s history and mythology to life.
The Cellar
The cellar in the Castle of Chignolo Po includes a kitchen with historical furnishings, a wine storage area, and a small armory.
The cellar also has secret tunnels that were once used as prisons.
Currently under renovation, the cellar aims to include a tasting area for wine, cured meats, and cheeses, adding to its unique charm.
Tower
The tower at the Castle of Chignolo Po is its oldest part, built around 740 C.E. by King Luitprand.
Standing 43 meters high, it offers stunning views of the Po River and the Via Francigena-Romea.
With battlements and a small loggia, the tower once served as a lookout to guard the region.
The Ricetto
The Ricetto at the Castle of Chignolo Po is a fortified hamlet rebuilt in 1600.
Located on the northern side of the castle, it consists of two parallel buildings.
One housed the agents and garages, while the other served as a stable.
The Aviary Theatre
The Aviary Theatre at the Castle of Chignolo Po is a baroque building situated in the center of the park.
The building was preceded by a small artificial lake
The Aviary Theatre was originally commissioned as a place for recreation.
Today, it is unfortunately abandoned and in need of maintenance.
