The wonderful crown of the Cottian Alps, dominated by the sharp outline of the Monviso massif, provides the frame for the imposing bulk of this castle, which is located around 40 kilometres from Turin.

Built in the 13th century as a military outpost, the fortress underwent a major overhaul in the 15th century thanks to Valerano, the enlightened ruler of the Marquisate of Saluzzo, who transformed it into a lavish family home at the time of the establishment of the fiefdom of La Manta. It was Valerano who wanted to enrich the Baronial Hall with the beautiful frescoes that today stand as unique testaments to the knightly culture of the time. On the southern wall, the myth of eternal youth, inspired by the chivalrous tale of the “Roman de Fauvel”, is depicted by the fountain of youth, surmounted by the god of Love.

On the opposite side of the room, the nine worthies and the nine worthy women of classical antiquity watch over us. In their 15th-century garb, they embody the chivalrous ideals of the military and moral virtues. In the mid-16th century, the 15th-century complex was once again renovated, and it is from this time that the Hall of Grotesques dates. This space features a wonderful ceiling decorated with paintings and stuccos that bear a clear Mannerist imprint, taking their cue from those in Raphael’s loggias at the Vatican.

Very much worth visiting are the service spaces, including the cellars and the large kitchen with its vaulted ceiling and immense fireplace; the castle church, commissioned by Valerano and embellished with significant frescoes on the Passion of Christ; and, last but not least, the large, shaded grounds, which afford an enchanting view over the delightful hillsides of the Varaita Valley.

Manta Castle is part of the project entitled “The Dukes of the Alps”, an itinerary that concentrates on the history of the House of Savoy.