Eagle Castle: Imposing 13th century castle
The Castello dell’Aquila is located on the top of the hill overlooking the village of Gragnola, at the confluence of the Aulella and Lucido rivers. It is one of the largest castles in Lunigiana, along with that of Verrucola.
The origins of a primary fortified structure (mastio) date back to the 13th century, which sits on the top of the hill likely allowing for the monitoring of medieval movements from Central Europe to Rome.
In the 14th century the territory broke away from Fosdinovo and, precisely in 1366, the castle became the marquise seat of the Malaspina dell’Aquila line, from which it took its name, becoming an independent fiefdom.
It was during the dominion of the Malaspina that the most important architectural modifications of the castle were made. Among the leading figures of this period are Spinetta Malaspina and Leonardo I, who carried out the transformation of the manors, with the aim of giving prestige and importance to the family residences.
After the economic decline of the Malaspina, degradation fell on the beautiful Castle. In 1920 it was hit by the terrible earthquake that affected Lunigiana and in the early 1900’s it was abandoned.
Today the Castle is completely restored. It took two years to clean and restore it to its original grandeur, thanks to work carried out with passion, care, competence and respect, to the extent possible, of the architecture and original materials.
A Residence Immersed in Relaxation
At the moment, the castle is not open for visits. The property functions as an accommodation facility surrounded by greenery, where guests can enjoy peaceful and relaxing days.
The castle also offers a variety of experiences, ranging from romantic ones, such as scenic trails or private hot tubs, to wellness activities like massages or saunas, and even food and wine experiences, including forest picnics or traditional Lunigiana culinary events, all of which can be found on their website.
Among its many services, the Castle hosts a Wonder Park, where guests can enjoy an unforgettable experience featuring alpaca walks, giant benches, gardens with squirrels, an emotional labyrinth, and much more, all set in a romantic atmosphere.
Curiosities for the tourist
During the restoration, the skeleton of a man was found inside the castle. With carbon 14 testing it was determined that he was a knight approximately 35 years of age, 5 foot 6 inches tall, carefully buried according to medieval tradition. He was determined to be a knight by the particular wear shown on his skeletal femur. There is a cast of the original skeleton in the castle today.
Visitable: currently not open to visitors
Where is the Castello dell’Aquila
The castle is located in the town of Gragnola, in the municipality of Fivizzano .
Nearby you can find
The Village of Equi Terme, Tecchia di Tenerano, the Village of Fivizzano, Malaspina Castle of Verrucola, Bozzi delle Fate, Pozze di Magliano, Lago Padule, Sacred Art Museum of San Giovanni.
