Grazzano Visconti, the medieval Italian village located in Piacenza. In the article you will find the myths and tips for visiting an incredible place with many restaurants tested and reviewed for you.
When we talk about travel we generally talk about places. In the village of Grazzano Visconti, in the area of Piacenzainstead, you can travel in time.
The small village it develops around a medieval castle, built by Giovanni Anguissola, husband of Beatrice Visconti, in turn sister of the famous Gian Galeazzo Visconti, Duke of Milan.
It was 1395 and while the first stones of the great Duomo were placed in the main square of the capital, here, as in other strongholds, stood one of the several family castles for defensive purposes.
It was transformed into a residence in the 600s, then abandoned.
When it returned to the Visconti family it underwent a timely restoration by the Duke Giuseppe who certainly did not escape the fashion of his time. According to the dictates of this era, enhancement, restoration and expansion of the village were planned in perfect neo-medieval style, with gothic and eclectic touches: a unique jewel that is certainly worth a visit!
When to go
The village is accessible all year round, each season offers themed events, of a historical or eno-gastronomic nature, organized by the Pro-Loco and the Consilium Medievale company. In May, the last Sunday of the month, the key event takes place, The Historical Parade with the Horse Tournament (on this occasion there is an entrance fee to the village, which is free on the other days of the year).
How to reach us
From the A1 and A21 motorway, exit South Piacenza. Taking the ring road, follow to Bettola-Stadio and follow Stadio-Grazzano V.
To finish, follow the signs towards Val Nure, 10km up to Grazzano V. Il parcheggio it is large and free during the week. On weekends there is a fee of € 2 for motorbikes, € 3 for cars.
To see
The family does not allow access to the castle, but the village is free and can be visited at any time. Walking through its streets you gradually come across the points of greatest interest: the Palace of the institution, the Theater, the Gothic Church, the former Asylum, the arcades of Via Carla Erba and the Cortevecchia, with the artisan shops and the Museum agricultural tools outdoors.
Finally, the park of the castle: guided tours (for a fee) depart from Mastro Gufo's shop in Piazza Gian Galeazzo Visconti.
What to eat
Inside the village, bars and restaurants are open all year round. "The Squire”Offers pizza cooked in a wood oven and restaurant menu, the "Aloisa" Bar instead offers sandwiches filled at the moment in the small adjoining delicatessen. Both places see rivers of people pouring in on the busiest days, so it is better, in my opinion, to anticipate lunchtime if you want to easily access the premises.
A valid alternative can be the bakery that produces pizzas and focaccias throughout the day, or (for the visitor who does not want to spend too much time on the break!) The "packed lunch”Set up in the small park at the entrance, with tables and benches for free use.
Last but very important warning: it is said that in Grazzano V. the ghost of the young Aloisa still lives today, betrayed by her beloved and died of sorrow .. to avoid that other unfortunate girls do the same, the ghost sends a warning: cell phones of unfaithful men have no field anywhere in the village. Be careful!
