In the heart of the high hills of the Oltrepò Pavese, in Valverde, stands the majestic medieval keep of the Castello di Verde. Dominating the Po Valley, this imposing structure is what remains of a 12th-century fortification, probably destroyed in the 16th century. Immersed in a park of over three hundred hectares, the Castello di Verde represents an oasis of silence and greenery, perfect for those seeking tranquillity and authentic contact with nature.
A Kingdom of Butterflies
At the foot of the keep lies the Butterfly Garden, a unique place in Lombardy for the presence of extremely rare lepidopteran specimens. Designed in collaboration with the Department of Ecology of the University of Pavia, this garden represents a naturalistic database of European importance, attracting scholars from all over the world. Among the meadows and woods surrounding the castle, the flights of butterflies are the only distraction, offering visitors an opportunity for meditation and reconnection with nature.
The Church of Our Lady of the Snow
A short distance from the keep is the small church of the Madonna della Neve, built by the Malaspina family in the late 16th and early 17th centuries from local sandstone rubble. Inside, a fresco depicts Saint Barbara and Saint Lucy, adding a further touch of history and spirituality to this already fascinating place.
Paths between Nature and History
Numerous paths start from and lead to Castello di Verde. Some of these have a purely naturalistic value, allowing visitors to encounter roe deer, squirrels, wild boar and foxes, observed from above by sparrowhawks and buzzards, the true queens of the blue sky. Other routes link the keep to other defensive structures and castles, such as those of Varzi and Oramala, testifying to the historical importance of these valleys as traffic routes for goods and people.
A Place to Love and Protect
The Castello di Verde and the Parco delle Farfalle are a unique place that invites contemplation and discovery. This corner of paradise is not only a haven of peace and beauty, but also a heritage to be protected and enhanced. Here, between the ancient walls and the light flights of butterflies, our hearts beat, reminding us of the importance of preserving our history and nature.
