Châtel-Argent castle

Description

Châtel-Argent is located on a rocky plateau above of Villeneuve in Aosta Valley, approximately 10 kilometers away from Aosta city. Châtel-Argent also occupied an important military function. The castle certainly occupy a dominant position to control the surrounding routes and potential invaders. Roman fortifications preexisted in the current location of the castle. However the ruins date back to the 13th century. The exact dates of the building period are not known, however it is supposed to have been rebuilt between 1274-1275 by Maître Jacques de Saint-Georges, architect of Peter II Count of Savoy. Today, the only remains still standing are the 16 meters tall crenellated tower and the ancient chapel at its feet and a few other half fallen walls. The ruins of the castle can be accessed by a narrow paved road just outside of Villeneuve: “La rampa” © Marie-Madeleine & Giuseppe