The Argine Castle, located in the hamlet of the same name in Bressana Bottarone, is one of the architectural jewels of the Pavia area. Its construction dates back to the 14th - 15th century, more precisely to the end of the 14th century, and was erected with a mainly defensive purpose. Today, this castle is not only a symbol of a bygone era, but also a well-preserved example of medieval Lombard architecture.
Architecture and Structure
The Argine Castle embodies the typical characteristics of Pavia castles, with a square plan and square towers at the corners. Although only two of the four original towers remain, their presence continues to dominate the surrounding landscape. The main tower, complete with battlements, is located to the right of the main entrance. The second tower, smaller in size, is located in the south-east corner.
One of the most distinctive features of the castle is the use of exposed brickwork, which is still well preserved today and gives the building a solid and austere appearance. The entrance is from the west, through an arched doorway leading to a square inner courtyard, the facades of which are partially plastered. Originally equipped with a drawbridge, today the castle has a fixed masonry bridge.
The perimeter walls of the castle bear the signs of the numerous alterations that have taken place over the centuries, particularly in the 18th century. An example is the superstructure of the north wing. The openings on the west side are single-lancet windows with moulded terracotta cornices, while the 18th-century windows on the north side have simple plastered and painted borders.
History and Property
Originally, Argine Castle belonged to the Simonetta family, in particular to Angelo Simonetta, who was feudal lord of Argine from 1466. Subsequently, the castle passed into the hands of the Visconti di Modrone, one of the most influential noble families in Lombardy.
With the passage of time and the lack of defensive needs, the castle changed its use, becoming a private residence.
The Moat and Decorations
A moat surrounds the entire building, a feature that immediately recalls the castle‘s original defensive function. The base is scarped and decorated with a terracotta frieze, still visible in small sections, which adds a touch of rustic elegance to the whole.
Inside, the castle has various rooms with vaulted ceilings and wooden decorations, which testify to the attention to detail and the importance of the building as a noble residence over the centuries.
Conclusions
The Argine Castle is not only a piece of history, but also a magnificent example of mediaeval architecture, well preserved and still able to tell the stories of the noble families who inhabited it. A visit to this castle allows one to step back in time, immersing oneself in a time when defence was a necessity and architecture reflected both functionality and aesthetics.
Every element of the castle, from the exposed bricks to the crenellated towers, from the moats to the interior decorations, contributes to creating a vivid image of what life must have been like in the Middle Ages. The Argine Castle is, without doubt, a cultural heritage to be preserved and enhanced, a silent witness to the rich history of Lombardy.
