Arvier Chateau de la Mothe

Château de la Mothe: A Window to the Medieval Past of the Aosta Valley The Château de la Mothe, located in the picturesque Aosta Valley near Arvier, is an emblematic example of medieval architecture that has spanned centuries of history.
Today, although largely in ruins, the castle continues to tell its story through its majestic four-sided tower that is still intact and the remains of a round tower and ancient walls.
History and Architecture The castle, first mentioned in historical documents from 1287, was the site of a feudal tribute by Aimone de Arverio to the Count of Savoy.
The original construction dates from the late 12th and early 13th centuries, with significant modifications made in the 15th century.
These construction phases have left traces that are still visible and attract historians and architectural enthusiasts.
The Link with Aimar de la Mothe A key figure in the castle’s history is Aimar de la Mothe, a Savoyard nobleman who, according to chronicler Jean-Baptiste De Tillier, came to the Aosta Valley in the late 13th century.
Aimar married the heiress of the De Arverio family, thus acquiring the castle.
Under his aegis, the castle was restored and expanded, becoming one of the symbols of his family’s power and influence in the region.
A Historic Wreck to Explore Today, Château de la Mothe offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in an authentic medieval atmosphere.
Walking through the ruins, one can easily imagine life in the past, with nobility and knights walking these same paths.
Architectural remains, such as the four-sided tower and segments of the city wall, serve as powerful reminders of medieval building techniques and defensive strategy of the time.