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CastelBrando: a journey through history and architecture

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CastelBrando is one of the most fascinating and historic castles in Italy, located in the municipality of Cison di Valmarino, in the province of Treviso, in the heart of the Prosecco hills

CISON DI VALMARINO (TV). With over two thousand years of history, this majestic castle has gone through epochs and dominations, transforming from a military fortress to a noble residence, to become today a prestigious tourist complex.

History and Architecture

The origins of CastelBrando date back to the Roman era, when the site housed a military fort along the Via Claudia Augusta. In the Middle Ages, the castle was expanded and became a strategic stronghold along the road connecting the Venetian plain to the Alps. In the following centuries, it passed under the control of different noble families, including the Da Camino and the Brandolini, the latter responsible for important architectural and decorative interventions that give the castle its current appearance.

Today, CastelBrando presents itself as a refined combination of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. The castle overlooks the valley from the top of a hill, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding vineyards and the Venetian plain. The extensive conservative restoration that has taken place in recent decades has allowed the historical beauty of the building to be preserved and adapted to modern tourist needs.

Museums and historical routes

CastelBrando in arms

The archaeological area of CastelBrando retraces the past and recent history of the castle. Here it is possible to discover the evolution of the restorations, admiring ancient weapons.

The museum is open all year round. For information and entrance tickets, you can contact the hotel reception or the visitor office on opening days.

Power and justice

An immersive experience that leads visitors through the ancient dungeons of the castle, recreating the atmosphere of a trial in the fiefdom of Valmareno between the 16th and 17th centuries. The museum occupies three ancient barrel-vaulted cells and is divided into three main sections:

  • Administration of justice
  • The processes celebrated in the county
  • The punishments

Open all year according to office visiting hours.

The costumes of power

In the vestry of the church of San Martino, some historically prestigious figures are presented, including Emperor Claudius Augustus, Doge Marin Falier, the Da Camino family, and Casanova. Through period costumes and the recounting of their lives, these characters reconstruct the events of the Veneto region over the centuries.

Open all year round according to office visiting hours.

The Roman Road Via Claudia Augusta

A historical journey that delves into the history of the ancient Via Claudia Augusta, studying its route and the economic and cultural connections that its creation generated among the populations. Built on older roads, this route has connected the shores of the Adriatic to those of the Danube for two thousand years, facilitating the transit of armies, merchants, and pilgrims.

Open all year according to office hours visits.

Architectural recovery

After centuries of history and transformations, in 1997 CastelBrando was purchased by a private company that started an impressive conservative restoration. This intervention allowed the structure to be brought back to its full splendor, preserving the original historical elements and adapting them to modern tourist needs. The interventions involved the recovery of the frescoes, the restoration of the walls and medieval towers, as well as the enhancement of the interior spaces, now used for events, conferences, and ceremonies.

One of the most fascinating features of the castle is the panoramic funicular, which allows visitors to comfortably reach the top of the hill while enjoying a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape.

Tourism and culture

Located in one of the most renowned areas for Prosecco production, CastelBrando is a must-visit for lovers of history, culture, and good wine. Its proximity to historic villages such as Follina and Conegliano makes the castle the perfect starting point to explore the Veneto region.

With its combination of history, luxury, and enchanting landscapes, CastelBrando is a destination that offers unique emotions, perfect for a stay dedicated to relaxation and discovering local traditions.

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