Castello Malaspina-Dal Verme

The Malaspina-Dal Verme Castle stands above Bobbio and the Trebbia valley. Its surviving keep and residential decoration record the transformation of a medieval fortress into a signorial dwelling.

Why it matters

The castle reflects the authority of successive ruling families over the town. Its military structure and later frescoes preserve different uses within the same complex, while the loss of outer defences makes the surviving core only part of the former stronghold.

What to notice

The rectangular keep dominates the complex. Courtyards, a well and surviving elements of the defensive system accompany it. The Dal Verme arms above a fireplace mark the family's presence. Sixteenth-century frescoes include an Annunciation and a Madonna and Child associated with the artistic circle of Parmigianino rather than securely attributed to the master.

Context and history

Construction is traditionally dated to 1304 under Corradino Malaspina, although a document of 1219 refers to earlier fortifications. The Dal Verme acquired the fief in 1436, and Gian Maria Dal Verme began a residential transformation in 1545. After later private ownership, the castle passed to the State in the twentieth century. Restoration in 1973 renewed important parts of the building.