Background

Castello di Serralunga d'Alba: A Medieval Marvel in Piedmont

Explore a remarkably preserved 14th-century castle in Piedmont's Langhe region, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into medieval history.

4.6

The Castello di Serralunga d'Alba, a remarkably preserved 14th-century castle, stands as a striking example of medieval architecture in the heart of Piedmont's Langhe region. Its unique French Donjon style, complete with a cylindrical tower, offers panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills. This historic site provides a glimpse into the region's noble past and its strategic importance.

A brief summary to Castello di Serralunga d'Alba

  • Monday 10:30 am-1:30 pm
  • Thursday 2:30 pm-6:30 pm
  • Friday 10:30 am-1:30 pm
  • Saturday 10:30 am-1:30 pm
  • Sunday 10:30 am-1:30 pm

Local tips

  • Book your guided tour in advance, especially on weekends and holidays, as access to the castle's interior is only permitted with a guided tour.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the walk up the cobblestone slope to the castle entrance.
  • Combine your visit with wine tasting at nearby wineries in the Barolo region.
  • Check the opening hours before your visit, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Small dogs are allowed inside the castle if carried in visitors' arms, and all dogs are welcome on the grounds if kept on a leash.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Serralunga d'Alba, the Castello di Serralunga d'Alba is a short, uphill walk. Follow the signs from Piazza Cappellano or Piazza Umberto I. The walk is approximately 500 meters and takes about 10-15 minutes. Be aware that the path is a cobblestone slope.

  • Public Transport

    The closest bus stop to Castello di Serralunga d'Alba is Serralunga (Bv. Sinio), which is served by bus line 172. From the bus stop, it is an 8-minute walk (566 meters) to the castle. Bus tickets can be purchased at local tabaccherias or directly on the bus. A single ticket within the Alba area typically costs around €1.50.

  • Driving

    From Alba, take the SP3 towards Serralunga d'Alba. As you enter Serralunga d'Alba, follow the signs to the Castello. There are several parking areas at the foot of the castle in Piazza Cappellano, Piazza Umberto I, and near the new parish church. Parking is typically free. From the parking areas, it is a short, uphill walk to the castle entrance.

Unlock the Best of Castello di Serralunga d'Alba

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Castello di Serralunga d'Alba

Rising majestically above the village of Serralunga d'Alba, the Castello di Serralunga d'Alba is a testament to medieval power and architectural innovation. Constructed between 1340 and 1357 by the Falletti family, the castle distinguishes itself with a French Donjon design, a rarity in Italy. Its slender, vertical structure served not only as a defensive stronghold but also as a symbol of the Falletti family's prestige and control over the region's productive activities. Originally, a 12th-century watchtower stood on the site, but Pietrino Falletti demolished it to build the current castle after receiving the fiefdom as a reward for his military service. The castle's design includes a palacium, a cylindrical tower, a turret for sighting, and a courtyard with a drawbridge. Inside, visitors can explore the large halls, including the "Salone dei Valvassori," which features 15th-century frescoes. The patrol path on the top floor offers a 360-degree panorama of the Langhe hills and surrounding villages. Over the centuries, the Castello di Serralunga d'Alba has remained remarkably well-preserved, largely due to its limited military significance and lack of residential conversion. In 1949, the Opera Pia Barolo sold the castle to the State, leading to significant restoration efforts. Today, managed by the Regional Directorate of Museums of Piedmont since 2015, the castle welcomes visitors to explore its historic rooms and learn about its intertwined history with the Langhe region. The castle is a national monument. A guided tour is required to visit the castle's interior.

Popular Experiences near Castello di Serralunga d'Alba

Popular Hotels near Castello di Serralunga d'Alba

Select Currency