It seems that a fortification on the hill already existed in the early Middle Ages, built by the Marquises of Massa, but the first written documentation relating to the castle dates back to the 12th century.
In the 15th century Massa became the property of the Malaspina di Fosdinovo marquises, who transformed the castle into a residence by implementing important architectural interventions which also included modernization of the defensive systems and ended in the 17th century.
The architectural complex at the end of the 19th century was definitively transformed into a prison and maintained this function until 1946.
Today, after the restoration, the Castle is divided into three distinct parts: the mighty walls, complete with bulwarks, walkways and rooms for the artillery, the residence and the keep. The residential part is very interesting, which develops around an elegant internal courtyard and has remarkable frescoes both in the internal rooms and on the facades.
Information and Entrances
OPENING HOURS until 14 September: from Tuesday to Sunday h. 17: 30/22: 30
Tickets: FULL € 5.50, REDUCED € 3.50 for young people aged 18 to 25, FREE up to 17 years
