Castle With a View

Europe » Italy » Piedmont
October 3rd 2016

Published: June 16th 2017

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01 Castle

The path that leads up to the castle.

Geo: 45.4216, 8.07096

After lunch Ilaria, Michael and I went for a drive with Zia Elenora. She had to go to the nearby town of Roppolo to pick up food for our dinner. Tonight we were having a local speciality – Fritto Misto. This dish translates as 'Mixed Fried' and consists of sweet and savoury food battered and deep fried! Zia parked outside the restaurant and came out a few minutes later with two large oval platters piled high with food. They were covered with foil, so we couldn't see the food, but it did smell delicious!

We then had a quick detour to the local castle. It was a quick drive to the top of the small castle. Parked next to the castle wall was a small truck filled with black grapes. Zia told us that there is a winery here. Part of the castle wall is formed of massive rocks. From the lookout area there was a great view of the surrounding area. We could see many mountains, the local church's bell tower, forests, farmland, vineyards and Lake of Viverone.

Part of this castle is from the 9th century. We followed the path into the castle. Here there was a small chapel

02 Rock

A huge rock that is part of the castle's wall.

and closed gates. There was a restaurant, but it had recently closed down. A maintenance man came out and told us that this part was privately owned and therefore we couldn't access this area. Zia explained to him that she was local and used to live in Roppolo for many years and her Australian niece and nephew were here. He was nice enough to let us in, we were allowed in the courtyard.

From here there was a great view point of the surrounding countryside. It was a shame we couldn't go into the castle building. We thanked him, left the castle and drove back to Milena's house.

Additional photos below

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