Sabbionara d’Avio Castle

Among the vineyards of Sabbionara d’Avio, the frescoes of the castle recount love, but also stories of war and episodes of battles.

The Avio castle is one of the Trentino’s most well-known, ancient and most-evocative fortified monument. From its location, along the slopes of Monte Vignola, the castle dominates the valley almost to Verona. Don’t miss the view of the imposing fortified tower, the massive walls and the five towers.

Most likely a military garrison during the Lombard era, it became the property of the Castelbarco family to then pass into the hands of the Venetians in 1441. Since 1977 the castle has been a Property of the FAI, which has realized an attentive work of restoration.

Upon entering, you will go through a tower door crowned by dove-tailed parapets. On the right, observe the massive shape of the tower which stands out from the eastern walls: it’s the “Picadora”, called that because, according to tradition, convicts were hanged on its terrace.

Inside, you will be enchanted by the splendid cycles of frescoes of the Veronese school: “La parata dei combattenti” (The Parade of Soldiers), on the walls of the “Casa delle Guardie” (Guard House), and “La stanza dell’amore” (The Room of Love), elegant decorations of a courtly taste in the tower.

The Avio Castle can be seen from afar. It is your first welcome to Trentino!