Castello di Moncrivello: A Historic Castle in Moncrivello, Italy

Visitor Information

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Official Website: www.alcastellomedioevale.it

Country: Italy

Civilization: Unclassified

Remains: Military

History

The Castello di Moncrivello is located in the municipality of Moncrivello in Italy. Its origins trace back to around the year 1000, constructed by inhabitants of the medieval period as a fortified stronghold.

During the 13th century, the site developed into a rocca, or fortified castle, designed for military defense. In 1243, control of the castle shifted to the Marquises of Monferrato, a prominent noble family in the region. The following century saw the castle come under the authority of the Bishops of Vercelli, who later granted it as a fief to the counts of the Fieschi family. This arrangement lasted until 1399.

That year, a popular uprising against Antonio Fieschi led to the castle’s transfer to Amadeus VIII, Duke of Savoy. Under his rule, the castle mainly retained its military function. The 15th century marked a turning point when Yolande of Valois, wife of Amadeus IX and daughter of Charles VII of France, transformed the fortress into a noble residence. Yolande resided there until her death in 1478.

The castle also served as a venue for noble events, including the marriage of Carlo I of Savoy to Bianca of Monferrato. Bianca later became regent of the Savoy state, highlighting the castle’s connection to significant dynastic figures. Later, Carlo III of Savoy gifted the castle to his wife, Beatrice of Portugal. This period marked the decline of the castle’s grand status.

In the 17th century, ongoing conflicts between France and Spain affected the castle’s ownership, leading it through various noble lineages. From 1692, it belonged to the Del Carretto family until a serious fire struck in either 1817 or 1825, causing significant damage. After many years of decline, private owners undertook restoration efforts in 1972. The castle received official national monument status in 1908.

Remains

The Castello di Moncrivello preserves a blend of medieval and Renaissance features that reflect its transformation from a fortress to a noble residence. Its layout centers around a large quadrangular tower dating to the medieval period. This tower was constructed with sturdy masonry and includes brick-framed windows. Notably, it features machicolations, openings in the battlements that allowed defenders to drop objects or pour substances on attackers below. The tower also contains a carriage passage providing access into the central courtyard.

Surrounding the main structure are defensive walls that were erected or enhanced during the renovations led by Yolande of Valois in the 15th century. These walls are characterized by swallowtail battlements, a distinctive type of crenellation shaped somewhat like a swallow’s tail, commonly used in Italian medieval architecture for both defense and decoration.

Inside the castle, several features date from the 15th-century transformation, emphasizing its residential purpose. A helical, or spiral, staircase allows movement between floors while saving space. Coffered ceilings with recessed panels add visual interest and depth to the rooms, demonstrating an attention to artistic detail. Terracotta fireplaces also survive, providing warmth and focal points in living areas.

Overall, the structure retains elements from both its original military function and later adaptations for noble living. Restoration efforts have preserved many of these components, allowing the castle to retain its historical character and architectural significance.