The castle of Grazzano Visconti is located in the heart of the Val d'Arda, in the municipality of Grazzano Visconti, in the province of Piacenza. The fascinating manor is not only a wonder to behold, but is also shrouded in legends and mysteries. The most famous legend is that of the ghost of Aloise, a young woman who continues to capture the imagination of visitors and scholars.
History of the castle
The castle of Grazzano Visconti was built in 1395 under the concession of Gian Galeazzo Visconti, lord of Milan, who gave it as a gift to his sister Beatrice, who married the nobleman from Piacenza Giovanni Anguissola. Only in 1870 did the fortress return to the ownership of the Visconti di Modrone. It was, especially the duke Giuseppe Visconti di Modrone who had it restored and transformed as it appears today. The Duke wanted to create a residence that recalled medieval architecture.
The construction works were inspired by traditional Lombard fortifications, incorporating decorative elements that recall different historical eras. The result is a fascinating complex, with towers, battlements and splendid gardens that seem to have come out of a fairy tale. Over the years, the castle has witnessed numerous historical events and hosted many important personalities, becoming a point of reference for local culture and history.
The legend of Aloisa, protector of unrequited lovers
The legend of Aloisa, natural daughter of Giovanni Anguissola, is linked to the castle of Grazzano Visconti. The young woman, who was neither beautiful nor very tall, married a captain of fortune, thanks to an arranged marriage. Aloisa immediately fell in love with her betrothed, but she was never reciprocated. Her sad married life led her to die of grief following her husband's abandonment. It is said that her spirit never left the castle.
It was she herself who told her story to Duke Joseph, who was a medium. There are several statues of her, in the village and inside the castle. One of these is displayed in the garden. It seems that it was the young woman herself who guided the duke to have a portrait made to then use to model the sculptures. Aloisa is considered the protector of unrequited lovers. Whoever turns to her leaves a small gift at her statue, an object that shows appreciation for her and comforts her from the sense of abandonment she suffered in her life.
Tourist attraction
Today the castle of Grazzano Visconti is an important tourist attraction, where visitors can explore the frescoed rooms, manicured gardens and participate in cultural events. Throughout the year, guided tours, exhibitions and markets are organized which attract a wide range of visitors, many of whom are fascinated by the possibility of encountering Aloisa's ghost.
Grazzano Visconti represents a crossroads of history, art and mystery, a place where the past mixes with the present in an enchanting atmosphere. If you have the opportunity to visit it, don't forget to pay attention to the signs of Aloisa's presence. Whether it's a historical adventure or a quest for the supernatural, the castle undoubtedly offers an unforgettable experience.
(Photo: Grazzano Visconti, Facebook Page)
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