Tuscany
Malaspina Castle - Massa (MS)

Malaspina Castle - Photo © O'CC

Malaspina Castle - Massa (MS)

The castle stands on the hill at the foot of the Apuan Alps.

The site was presumably occupied in the Late Middle Age by the Marchesi of Massa, although the earliest written documentation relevant to the castle dates back to the 12th century.

In the 15^th century Massa became the property of the Marchesi Malaspina di Fosdinovo, who transformed the castle into a residence with important architectural work that lasted until the 17th century and included also restructuring the defensive parts.

The architectural complex, which at the end of the 19^th century was finally transformed into a prison, remained such up to 1946, but today after a restoration, it consists of 3 distinct units: the sturdy walls, with their ramparts, walks and embrasures for the artillery, the residence and the keep.

Each of these elements shows signs of the various phases of constructions, development and modification.

The residential part is particularly interesting with a layout that follows the line of an elegant internal courtyard, and with some impressive frescoes both in the halls inside and on the facades of the building.