Gropparello, Emilia-Romagna 29025

Montechino Castle: An authentic medieval residence in the Piacenza Hills Montechino Castle, built in the 12th century, dominates Mount Occhino at an altitude of 515 meters, between the Riglio and Nure Valleys. An ancient outpost along the Via Francigena and the residence for centuries of noble families such as the Confalonieri, Nicelli, and Farnese families, this manor is today a private residence of rare elegance, carefully restored over the last twenty-five years to maintain its original structure, combining the charm of historic Tuscan homes and Provençal maisons. The spaces of the Castle The property is spread over approximately 1,100 m2 spread over several levels: Ground floor: A tree-lined avenue leads to the main gate and the castle entrance. Here, the internal courtyard, the heart of the residence, overlooked by a centuries-old olive tree, opens up. The courtyard leads to the large reception rooms: the halls with stone fireplaces, parquet floors, and exposed-beam ceilings, ideal as reception rooms. The spacious Provençal-style kitchen, with a fireplace and wood-burning oven, evokes the atmosphere of ancient manor houses, while the stone-vaulted cellars and internal well complete the floor, preserving its medieval authenticity. First floor: The upper level features elegant and welcoming spaces. The library-study, adorned with mahogany bookcases and a fireplace, is complemented by other refined spaces such as the tea room and private living room. The sleeping area includes bright bedrooms with beamed ceilings, original fireplaces, and private bathrooms, offering maximum comfort while maintaining a historic feel. Second floor: Here you'll find additional bedrooms and bathrooms, suitable for both private family spaces and guest accommodations. Some rooms offer spectacular views of the valley, making every space a haven of peace and contemplation. The tower: A wooden staircase leads to the panoramic tower: from here you can overlook the entire valley with a suggestive view that takes in hills, woods and the outlines of the Piacenza hills. The accessory buildings and the park The private park of approximately 27 hectares includes botanical gardens, meadows, centuries-old trees, and woods. Two independent units complete the property: a 300 sq m farmhouse and a 200 sq m caretaker's residence. At the entrance to the grounds is a service shed for the estate. The castle, fully restored and equipped with a natural gas heating system, is suitable for use year-round. Its location, just 30 minutes from the Piacenza motorway, makes it easily accessible from Milan, Parma, and Bologna, while maintaining a private atmosphere immersed in nature.