The Castle della Valle in Fiumefreddo Bruzio, located in the province of Cosenza, is an imposing historical landmark overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, in the heart of one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. Founded in 1201, the castle has gone through centuries of transformations, reflecting the different eras and architectural styles that have characterized it. A landmark for the village, the Castle of the Valley was renovated in 1531 by Marquis Hernando de Alarcón, who adapted it for residential use according to the Renaissance taste of the time. At that time, the Michelangelesque entrance portal was added, a testament to the artistry of the time.
In 1806-1807, the castle suffered severe damage as a result of the siege by Napoleonic troops, being almost completely destroyed. Despite the devastation, the castle’s dungeons have been partially restored and are now usable as exhibition and event spaces. Another sign of historical resilience is the visibility of the traces left by General Renyer’s cannonades, which are still visible on the walls, testifying to the brutality of the wartime events of that period.
During the 20th century, the Castle della Valle also became a place of artistic inspiration. Painter and sculptor Salvatore Fiume, fascinated by the castle ruins, began decorating it in the 1970s. Fiume painted numerous frescoes, including the famous “Room of Desires,” a work that recounts the “artist’s dream about Fiumefreddo.” His murals, characterized by an explosion of colors and symbolism, give a unique look to the castle, interweaving history, art and imagination.
The castle, which once housed a large tower and fortifications, is still an awe-inspiring place. There is a spectacular view from here: to the south, on a clear day, you can see Sicily and the volcano Stromboli, while to the north you can see the historic center of Fiumefreddo Bruzio. Castle della Valle is a place that embodies the history, art and beauty of Calabria, a place that continues to excite anyone who visits it.
