Palazzo Zoppi: A Glimpse into Cassine's Past

Palazzo Zoppi, nestled in the heart of Cassine, offers a captivating journey through time. Originally a fortress from the 13th to 15th centuries, it was later adapted into a residence for the Zoppi family, who were granted the Cassine fiefdom. The palace is actually a collection of buildings joined together. On Via San Realino, visitors can observe a double-arched window, traces of Gothic windows, and friezes. A medieval tower once stood at the center of the facade but was lowered in the 19th century. The south side's facade has been restored in a neo-Renaissance style. The interior features rooms modified over time, including a valuable library with an 18th-century frieze restored by Giovanni Patrone. The large dining room boasts a monumental fireplace from the Napoleonic era, and the Hall of Chains features wall decorations and a portrait of Marquis C. Zoppi, Grand Chancellor of the House of Savoy (1658-1740). Other rooms include the gallery of portraits and white weapons. The courtyard retains porticoes with pointed arches on octagonal pillars, adorned with draped panels. The family chapel opens on one side. Archaeological finds are displayed under the porticoes, including a Corinthian capital from Libarna, Roman amphorae from Acqui Terme, and a Hellenistic marble head of Jupiter from Rhodes, brought back by a family member who participated in the landing and battle of Psinthos in 1912 during the capture of the Greek island. Also of interest is a marble bas-relief of Henry III of France (1551-1589).