Emilia-Romagna, Piacenza, Agazzano, Italy

At the point where the last hills of the Ligurian Apennines stretch out towards the Po Valley, stands an imposing medieval castle that combines the charm of eight centuries of history with the luxury and comforts of contemporary living. With over 4,000 sqm of interior space and 80,000 sqm of outdoor areas, this unique property is now offered for sale as a private home or prestigious venue for high-end hospitality. Masterfully restored, the complex includes sumptuous reception rooms, bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, fully equipped kitchens, a complete spa and historical cellars. Outside, there is an enchanting panoramic swimming pool and a multi-purpose sports field. The Italian-style garden opens onto a valley of rare beauty, while the surrounding land is home to a lush olive grove, an orchard and a private forest.
The origins of this imposing estate date back to the 13th century, when it was built as a strategic stronghold and incorporated into the defensive system that controlled the passages between the Luretta and Tidone valleys. The first documented mention dates back to 1412, when the Duke of Milan, Filippo Maria Visconti, granted it, along with other possessions, to Filippo and Bartolomeo Arcelli, who were appointed counts of Val Tidone. With the decline of the Arcelli family, the property passed back under ducal authority, only to be entrusted to various trusted commanders. Over the centuries, the castle changed hands several times until the second half of the 19th century, when it was sold to the Collegio Morigi in Piacenza and finally to the Marchesi family.
The current architecture retains the original quadrangular layout, with buildings arranged around a large internal courtyard and four circular corner towers. Once surrounded by a moat, the castle preserves the remains of the ancient fortified entrance on the north side, which in the past was equipped with a drawbridge, while today's main entrance is on the west side, accessible via a masonry bridge. The façades overlooking the courtyard reveal traces of the many construction phases, including stone columns supporting three elegant arches of the main portico. The exposed stone walls show traces of ancient plaster here and there, while inside, despite having lost most of its original finishes, the wooden floors and roofs have been preserved, many of which have been restored using historical elements and traditional tile roofing. These details, together with the solidity of the structure, bear witness to centuries of history, transformations and adaptations, while maintaining the authentic charm of a medieval castle that has stood the test of time.
Ref. 14596