Torrechiara Castle, exclusive visits to the Tower of San Nicomede begin

Torrechiara Castle, a jewel of fortified architecture located south of Parma, is offering visitors the opportunity to explore hidden corners of its structure with a series of extraordinary guided tours. Starting January 25 and running through March 29, 2025, the public will be able to access the Torre di San Nicomede and the south and east patrol walkways, which are not normally open to visitors.

The tours, scheduled at 11:30 a.m. on the dates of Jan. 25, Feb. 1, 8, 14, 15, 22 and March 1, 8, 15, 22, 25, 29, will accommodate a maximum of 20 people per group. The cost of the ticket is only 5 euros, with compulsory free reservations that can be made at the castle ticket office or by calling 05 21355255.

Another interesting option for history and culture enthusiasts is the single ticket, available for 25 euros. This special pass allows access to all venues of the Pilotta Monumental Complex circuit, of which Torrechiara Castle has been a part since June 2024. The ticket allows visitors to visit the Pilotta on the day of purchase or reservation and to explore the other sites on the circuit-including the Antica Spezieria di San Giovanni Evangelista in Parma and the Veleia Archaeological Park and Antiquarium in Lugagnano Val d’Arda-within thirty days.

Guided tours of Torrechiara Castle represent a unique opportunity to access emblematic spaces such as the Tower of San Nicomede, one of the key elements of the fortress’ defensive system. From the south and east patrol walkways, visitors can admire evocative views, discovering machicolations, loopholes and lookout posts that tell the stories of a fascinating past.

With these exclusive visits, Torrechiara Castle renews its commitment to making its cultural heritage increasingly accessible. An interesting appointment, then, for those who love to immerse themselves in history and be fascinated by the secrets of one of Italy’s most beautiful fortresses.

Torrechiara Castle: a masterpiece of defense and beauty

Built between 1448 and 1460 at the behest of Count Pier Maria Rossi, Torrechiara Castle is a magnificent example of fortified Renaissance architecture. Perched on a rise overlooking the surrounding valley, the manor harmoniously integrates defensive functions with the sophistication of court life.

The building, influenced by Sforza and Visconti styles, is built around a central courtyard and has four corner towers and underground rooms, which can now be visited thanks to restoration work completed in 2006.

The castle’s interiors are a true treasure trove of art and history. Prominent among the many frescoed rooms is the famous Golden Chamber, considered one of the most fascinating rooms in the fortress. This space, created between 1460 and 1462 by Benedetto Bembo-or, according to recent hypotheses, by his brother Gerolamo-celebrates the theme of chivalric love through a series of painted scenes embellished with pure gold leaf. Other noteworthy rooms include the Sala di Giove, the Sala del Pergolato and the Sala della Vittoria, decorated by Cesare Baglione, and the Sala degli Angeli, with frescoes attributed to an anonymous early 17th-century Parma artist. On the upper floor, however, is the large Salone degli Acrobati, decorated by Baglione and Giovan Antonio Paganino.

Since June 2024, Torrechiara Castle has become part of the Complesso monumentale della Pilotta circuit, a project that aims to enhance some of the most significant places in Emilian history and culture. Situated in a hilly area that has been dedicated to the cultivation of vines for centuries, the castle represents not only a symbol of Italy’s great architectural tradition, but also a point of reference for the deep connection between art, landscape and the local community.

Torrechiara Castle, exclusive visits to the Tower of San Nicomede begin

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