Avise The castle of Avise
The Castle of Avise: A Heritage of History and Architecture in the Aosta Valley In the heart of the Aosta Valley, Avise Castle stands as a massive testament to the region’s historical and architectural legacy.
Distinct from the nearby castle of Blonay, which dominates the center of the village of Avise, the castle named after the noble d’Avise family tells a story of power, dynastic transfers, and changes through the centuries.
Origins and History Built in 1492,Avise Castle was initially the residence of Boniface d’Avise or Rodolphe d’Avise, key figures in local history.
The decision to build this fortress at the entrance to the village was not only strategic for the control of the territory, but also symbolized the power and influence of the d’Avise family in the region.
Architecture and Features The castle is distinguished by its robust architecture, typical of defensive constructions of the period.
Its thick walls and fortified structures represent an excellent example of medieval architecture designed to withstand sieges and protect its inhabitants.
Changes in Ownership With the extinction of the d’Avise family, the castle passed to the Bianco di San Secondo family, another noble lineage.
The latter owned it until 1798, when it was sold to private individuals.
This transfer of ownership marked the end of the castle’s noble era, transforming it from a symbol of feudal power to a historical monument.
The Castle Today, Avise Castle is an important cultural and tourist site.
Visiting the castle offers a plunge into the past, allowing visitors to explore the rooms that once housed the nobility of Valle d’Aosta and to admire the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
The castle of Avise The History
The massive architectural complex of Avise Castle was built in the late 15th century by a certain Boniface d'Avise, and this noble family ruled the castle for many years.
After the fall of the d'Avise lords, the fortress passed into the hands of the Bianco di San Secondo family until, in 1798, the castle was sold to private owners.
The Castle of Avise today Even today, an inscription can still be glimpsed on the entrance door of the Castle of Avise bearing the motto of the lords of Avise: "Qui tost Avise tart se repent."
This castle cannot be visited at present, but it is rarely opened to the public on the occasion of rare exhibitions and temporary shows based right inside the manor.
Not everyone knows that, in Avise, there is a third castle: the Cré Castle.
This fortress is really very little known, as the architecture of this ancient manor has not been preserved to the point where it is interesting from a tourist point of view.
