Top 5 Castles around Borghetto Di Vara
Best castles around Borghetto Di Vara are primarily historical sites and fortifications located in the surrounding Val di Vara region, rather than directly within the village itself. Borghetto di Vara is historically significant as an ancient crossroads, known for its ancient pathways and religious sites. The area offers a landscape characterized by historical structures and natural beauty, serving as an important stopping point for travelers and pilgrims. While prominent castles are not found directly in Borghetto di Vara, the region…
Last updated: July 15, 2026
Levanto Clock Tower
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Castello di Calice al Cornoviglio
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Carpena Castle and Church
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beautiful church and castle ruins
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Suvero Castle
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Castello di Madrignano
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The name Calice al Cornoviglio combines two distinctive elements of the village: "Calice," of uncertain origin but perhaps derived from the Latin calix (cup), referring to the site's concave shape, and "Cornoviglio," the mountain (561 m) that overlooks the village and lends its name to the entire ridge. This toponym appears in medieval documents and recalls the village's ancient connection with the surrounding Apennine territory. Calice was long ruled by the Malaspina dello Spino Secco family, who built a strategic castle there, documented since the 11th century and modified several times over the centuries. Today, the fortress houses the Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art and the Chestnut Documentation Center, two testimonies to the profound intertwining of history, spirituality, and the territory's resources. A short distance away is the parish church of Santa Maria Lauretana, an elegant 18th-century Baroque building with exquisite decorations and a polychrome marble high altar. The village comes alive throughout the year with traditional events such as the Feast of Our Lady of Loreto (September), the Chestnut Festival (October) and various summer festivals, which highlight the historical and cultural roots of the place.
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The toponym Suvero seems to derive from the Latin word supernus (superior, placed above) and recalls its privileged strategic position of control, between the Vara valley and the Lunigiana. Dominating the village of Suvero is the castle, along the road that leads to the Passo dei Casoni. When the Marquis Rinaldo Malaspina received the investiture as lord of the fiefdom of Suvero in 1549, he decided to expand and renovate the previous castle, already four centuries old. A defensive and then residential position for the Malaspina family, the castle was abandoned by its owners after 1797 with the end of the imperial lordships decreed by the new Napoleonic French domination. In recent years, the castle of Suvero, for the third time in its very long history, has been completely restored and is currently used as a private residence. Therefore, the castle cannot be visited. The church of San Giovanni Battista, stands right in front of the castle, and shows clear traces of subsequent renovations. It has a cross-shaped structure and in the crypt it preserves a white marble bas-relief of the Virgin and Child surrounded by music-making angels, which bears the date 1497 engraved on it.
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Suggestive place, with a very talkative sacristan who takes care of the whole place.
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The original tower is part of the medieval city wall of Levanto around 1200. It served to protect against the Pisans.
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Recently renovated, one of the best preserved castles in the Val di Vara. Its 'tower' is imposing and dominates a spectacular panorama from above.
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Viewpoint over La Spezia beautiful church and castle ruins
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of historical sites can I explore around Borghetto di Vara?
While Borghetto di Vara itself is known for its ancient pathways and religious sites, the surrounding Val di Vara region features various historical defensive structures and ruins. You can visit sites like Castello Doria near Cinque Terre, the medieval Levanto Clock Tower, or the strategic Castello di Calice al Cornoviglio which houses a Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art.
Are there any castles with good viewpoints?
Yes, Carpena Castle and Church offers a beautiful viewpoint over La Spezia, featuring picturesque church and castle ruins. Castello di Calice al Cornoviglio also provides scenic views of the surrounding area.
Can I visit Suvero Castle?
Suvero Castle, a historical site with a strategic position between the Vara valley and Lunigiana, has been completely restored and is currently used as a private residence. Therefore, it cannot be visited by the public.
What outdoor activities are available near these historical sites?
The area around Borghetto di Vara and its historical sites is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the historical Via dei Monti pilgrimage route. There are also dedicated MTB trails and road cycling routes to explore the natural beauty of the Val di Vara region.
Are there any family-friendly historical sites or activities?
While specific family-friendly activities at each site may vary, exploring the historical ruins and medieval structures like the Levanto Clock Tower can be an engaging experience for families. The nearby Cinque Terre, accessible from Castello Doria, offers charming coastal villages that are popular with families.
What is the historical significance of the castles in this region?
The castles and fortifications in the Val di Vara region, such as Castello di Calice al Cornoviglio and Suvero Castle, often served strategic defensive purposes due to their elevated positions. Many were built or modified by powerful families like the Malaspina, reflecting centuries of regional conflicts and control. Sites like the Levanto Clock Tower were integral to medieval city defenses.
What can I expect to see at Castello di Calice al Cornoviglio?
Castello di Calice al Cornoviglio is a strategic castle with a rich history, once ruled by the Malaspina family. Today, it houses the Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art and the Chestnut Documentation Center. Nearby, you can also visit the elegant 18th-century Baroque parish church of Santa Maria Lauretana.
Are there any religious sites near the castles?
Yes, the region has several significant religious sites. Near Carpena Castle, you'll find a beautiful church. The village of Calice al Cornoviglio, home to Castello di Calice al Cornoviglio, also features the parish church of Santa Maria Lauretana. Borghetto di Vara itself is known for its ancient monastic complex of Madonna dell'Accola and the Sanctuary of Nostra Signora di Roverano.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles and historical sites?
The spring and autumn months generally offer pleasant weather for exploring the historical sites and engaging in outdoor activities around Borghetto di Vara. These seasons avoid the peak summer heat and crowds, making for a more comfortable experience.
What is special about the Levanto Clock Tower?
The Levanto Clock Tower is a historical site that was originally part of Levanto's medieval city wall, dating back to around 1200. It played a crucial role in protecting the town, particularly against the Pisans, making it a significant piece of local history.
What are some notable natural features or landscapes in the area?
The Val di Vara region surrounding Borghetto di Vara is known for its natural beauty, characterized by rolling hills, lush valleys, and proximity to the Ligurian coast. Many historical sites, like Carpena Castle and Church, offer panoramic viewpoints of this diverse landscape, including views over La Spezia.
Are there any hidden gems among the historical sites?
While not a 'hidden gem' in the sense of being unknown, the Carpena Castle and Church is described as a 'suggestive place' with beautiful ruins and a church, offering a unique atmosphere and a talkative sacristan who cares for the site, providing a more personal experience.
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