Castello e Parco di Masino

About

Masino Castle (Italian: Castello di Masino) sits atop a morainic outcrop overlooking the Ivrea Plain in the heart of Piedmont. The castle’s origins date back to the 11th century and it was home to the noble Valperga dynasty, whose lineage traces to Italy’s first king, Arduino. Over the centuries the fortress has endured sieges by the Savoy, French, and Spanish armies, yet its sturdy keep and quadrangular layout have survived. In 1988 the property was acquired by the Fondo Ambiente Italiano and has since been restored as a museum and cultural site. Visitors can explore the castle’s elegantly furnished rooms, frescoed galleries, and the extensive surrounding gardens that illustrate the evolution of the Italian landscape. The site offers a rare glimpse into the region’s medieval architecture and the everyday life of Piedmont’s aristocracy, making it a must‑visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes