The castle of Montecalvo Versiggia: noble history in the hills of Oltrepò Pavese

Amidst the rolling hills of the Oltrepò Pavese, Montecalvo Versiggia guards an architectural jewel that has its roots in the area’s noble past: the Montecalvo Versiggia castle, now a private residence but still a visible witness to an ancient heritage.

It is reached by climbing up from the cemetery area, along the road that first leads to the parish church and the nearby Corkscrew Museum, located in a recently restored square. From there, a short but intense final stretch leads to the perimeter walls of the castle, today what remains of the original fortification.

Built in red brick, the castle retains architectural elements that tell its story. In some parts it is still possible to see signs of the ancient towers, which have now disappeared, while a small but striking medieval-style balcony can be seen, evoking its former splendour.

The castle originally belonged to the Dal Pozzo family, then to the Belcredi family, then to the Brignole family, and finally, together with the surrounding lands, to the Fiori family, who still own it today.

Today, although it cannot be visited inside, the castle of Montecalvo Versiggia remains visible from the outside and represents an important historical and architectural reference point for those who want to learn more about the feudal and noble heritage of the area.

Cover image taken from the General Catalogue of Cultural Heritage