Castello Scarampi
A fortified complex in lower Piedmont that evolved from medieval wooden fortification to stone castle, anchoring the hilltop village of Monale with three centuries of architectural layering.
At a glance
Castello Scarampi crowns the Bric San Giovanni overlooking Monale in the Alessandria province. Part of the Lower Piedmont “Open Castles” network, it stands as a living record of medieval fortification practices and aristocratic restoration. The complex includes the castle itself, the Church of Santa Caterina d’Egitto, and the adjacent Bastita defensive structure.
History
The castle was erected in 1161 on the hill that commands the village. The Bastita, nearby, began in the early 14th century as a simple wooden palisade before gradually acquiring stone fortifications and castle characteristics over subsequent centuries. The Church of Santa Caterina d’Egitto, of ancient origin, underwent major expansion in 1678 when it received a bell tower. The Church of Santa Maria del Fonte, dating to the 14th century and formerly the village parish church, was enlarged in the 17th century and now serves as the cemetery chapel. Twentieth-century restoration was undertaken by the Gani family, restoring the castle to contemporary condition.
What you see
The castle occupies the hilltop position typical of medieval defensive strategy. The Bastita presents itself today as a 17th-century structure rising above the settlement—its long evolution from wooden fort to masonry tower is legible in its fabric. Santa Caterina d’Egitto displays the characteristic bell tower added in the late 17th century. Santa Maria del Fonte retains 14th-century foundations beneath 17th-century expansions, its modest scale reflecting its original parish role.
Cultural significance
These structures document the transition from temporary wooden defenses to permanent stone fortifications in Lower Piedmont. The three buildings together illustrate how medieval villages organized around simultaneous defensive and spiritual functions. Their participation in the “Open Castles” heritage network reflects modern commitment to preserving and sharing these architectural documents of feudal and aristocratic society.
Key facts
- Founded: 1161 (castle); early 14th century (Bastita); ancient origins (Santa Caterina d’Egitto)
- Address: Via Baldichieri, 1, 14013 Monale
- Coordinates: 44.9339083, 8.0747574
- Phone: 0141 669000
- Website: https://www.comune.monale.at.it/it/point-of-interest/salone-della-canonica
- Part of the “Open Castles” network of Lower Piedmont
Practical information
Visiting hours and admission details are available through the municipality contact information. The site is open to the public as part of the regional Open Castles initiative.
Getting there
Monale is located in the Alessandria province of Piemonte. By car from Alessandria, follow regional roads toward Acqui Terme. For detailed directions and public transit options, consult your route planner with the coordinates or address above.
Sources & resources
- Municipality of Monale: https://www.comune.monale.at.it/it/point-of-interest/salone-della-canonica
- Castelli Aperti network (Open Castles of Lower Piedmont)
- Cultural Heritage Online: https://culturalheritageonline.com
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