Top 4 Castles around Pievepelago
Castles around Pievepelago are located in the Apennine mountains, providing historical sites and strategic viewpoints. The region features a combination of natural landscapes and ancient fortifications. These sites historically monitored ancient roads connecting the Po Valley to Tuscany and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Pievepelago offers access to remnants of medieval strongholds and historic villages.
Best castles around Pievepelago
- The most popular castles is Rocca di Roccapelago, a castle that dominates the Pelago basin from a rocky outcrop. This site was a medieval stronghold, fortified by Obizzo da Montegarullo, and now houses the Museo delle Mummie Roccapelago and "In the Footsteps of Obizzo da Montegarullo" museum.
- Another must-see spot is Panoramic viewpoint - Torricella, a viewpoint offering views of the 13th-century Rocca del Castello. This location highlights the strategic importance of the fortress and provides panoramic vistas.
- Visitors also love Bargecchia Historic Village, a settlement fortified by a castle since the Middle Ages. This village, once important for the defense of Lucca lands, features a church dedicated to San Regolo and has seen recent restoration efforts.
- Pievepelago is known for medieval fortresses and historic fortified villages. Visitors can explore remnants of powerful strongholds and ancient settlements.
- The castles around Pievepelago are appreciated by the komoot community, with 9 upvotes and 7 photos shared.
Last updated: May 2, 2026
Rocca di Roccapelago
Highlight • Castle
Four ancient rooms have recently been recovered which currently house the "In the footsteps of Obizzo da Montegarullo" and "The Mummies of Roccapelago" museums.
From the site: roccapelago.it
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Panoramic viewpoint - Torricella
Highlight • Viewpoint
Beautiful panoramic views show the strategic importance of this fortress.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Bargecchia Historic Village
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Pievepelago
Tips from the Community
easy to reach starting from Pieve Fosciana towards Sillico
0
0
Formerly known as Villa Bargicula, it is a small village located in the municipality of Pieve Fosciana, in the Upper Garfagnana. It has been fortified by a castle since the Middle Ages. The earliest historical records concern its church, dedicated to San Regolo, mentioned in the Papal Bull issued on December 23, 1168, by Pope Alexander III and addressed to the parish priest of Pieve Fosciana. In 1401, Paolo Guinigi, Lord of Lucca, considering it important for the defense of the Lucca lands, included it in the list of fortifications to be renovated and strengthened. In 1433, like many other villages in the Garfagnana, it voluntarily surrendered to the Este family. After many years of abandonment, Bargecchia is now returning to life: several homes have been restored. The main building is the church of San Regolo, which is believed to date back to the 17th century. Bargecchia is connected to Pieve Fosciana by an ancient municipal road and was for a long time an obligatory stop for those who descended from Sillico to the Ceserana Bridge to reach Castelnuovo Garfagnana by the shortest route.
0
0
It is believed that the rocky block on which Roccapelago stands was an ancient prehistoric castle. The first mention of a "Castrum Pelago" is found in a document dated 753. Roccapelago probably belonged to the Gualandelli family since the 12th century, and was subsequently a fiefdom of the Montegarullo family from 1240, whose warlike politics it suffered, especially under Obizzo da Montegarullo. In 1393, Obizzo having rebelled against the Este family, Roccapelago was besieged by the Lucchese allies of the house of Este, who took possession of the castle. In 1396 Obizzo managed to regain possession of it and Roccapelago remained with the Montegarullo family until 1408 when a powerful military contingent, under the command of Uguccione dei Contrari, managed to capture it and take it prisoner to Ferrara. In 1586, the new church of Roccapelago was built on the perimeter of the now abandoned castle. The square, massive shape, without arches, without columns and without vaults suggests that its room had been the hall of the Obizzo manor. The bell tower was built at the expense of the population in 1765, using a tower from the old castle. Other restoration works were carried out in 1925 due to damage from an earthquake. Four ancient rooms have recently been recovered which currently house the "In the footsteps of Obizzo da Montegarullo" and "The Mummies of Roccapelago" museums. From the site: http://www.roccapelago.it/
0
0
A location that everyone looks forward to. Here people are asked to kiss with the 13th century Rocca del Castello in the background. A place to share in good company. Beautiful panoramic views show the strategic importance of this fortress.
7
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Rocca di Roccapelago a significant historical site?
The Rocca di Roccapelago is historically significant for its strategic position dominating the Pelago basin, once monitoring ancient roads. It was a medieval stronghold, notably fortified by Obizzo da Montegarullo. Today, it houses the unique Museo delle Mummie Roccapelago and a museum dedicated to its medieval history, "In the Footsteps of Obizzo da Montegarullo."
What can I expect to see at the Museo delle Mummie Roccapelago?
The Museo delle Mummie Roccapelago, located within the Church of the Conversion of St. Paul the Apostle, displays over 300 naturally mummified bodies from the 16th to 18th centuries. These mummies, preserved by the crypt's unique microclimate, offer a rare glimpse into the daily lives and burial customs of past inhabitants.
Are there other historical villages or sites to explore near Pievepelago?
Yes, the Bargecchia Historic Village is a notable site. This settlement was fortified by a castle since the Middle Ages and was important for the defense of Lucca lands. It features the church of San Regolo and has seen recent restoration efforts.
Can I find scenic viewpoints near the castles around Pievepelago?
Absolutely. The castles are often situated in strategic locations offering panoramic views. For example, the Panoramic viewpoint - Torricella provides stunning vistas, including the 13th-century Rocca del Castello, highlighting the strategic importance of the fortresses and the surrounding Apennine landscapes.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in the Pievepelago area?
The best time to visit is generally during the spring and autumn months. The weather is milder, making it ideal for exploring the castle ruins and enjoying the scenic views. Summer can also be pleasant, especially in the mountains, but may be busier.
Are there hiking opportunities near the castles around Pievepelago?
Yes, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find several running and cycling routes around Pievepelago. For example, there are difficult running trails like the 'Monte Giovo summit (1,991 m) – Lago Santo loop' or challenging cycling routes such as the 'Fola Bridge – Ponte della Luna loop'. You can explore more options on the Running Trails around Pievepelago or Cycling around Pievepelago guides.
Are the castles around Pievepelago suitable for families?
Many aspects of visiting the castles can be family-friendly. The historical context and unique features like the Museo delle Mummie at Rocca di Roccapelago can be engaging for older children. Scenic viewpoints like Panoramic viewpoint - Torricella are also noted as family-friendly.
What kind of historical figures are associated with the castles in this region?
The castles in the Pievepelago area have a rich history involving various figures. Notably, the Rocca di Roccapelago was held by the Longobards, Matilda of Canossa, and later became a Guelph stronghold under the medieval warlord Obizzo da Montegarullo, who challenged the Este family.
Where can I find more information about visiting Castello di Roccapelago?
For additional details regarding Castello di Roccapelago, including potential opening hours or specific visitor information, you may consult resources like the official tourism website for the region. For example, you can check visitmodena.it.
What is the general appeal of visiting castles in the Pievepelago region?
Visitors appreciate the castles around Pievepelago for their blend of historical significance, architectural remains, and stunning Apennine landscapes. They offer a chance to explore remnants of powerful medieval fortresses, learn about ancient conflicts, and enjoy panoramic views, often combined with unique cultural attractions like the Mummies Museum.
Are there any specific architectural features to look for in the castles?
While some parts of the castles are in ruins, significant elements like walls and gatehouses are still visible. At Rocca di Roccapelago, the highest point retains a mound of ruins from the keep, and a tower was converted into a bell tower for the parish church, which itself was adapted from the feudal palace's armory.
Most popular routes around Pievepelago
Most popular attractions around Pievepelago
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Pievepelago:
