Castello Benelli

Castello Benelli, located in the countryside of Bordonchio, was constructed at the behest of Count Pietro Spina in the mid-19th century, on the foundations of an ancient Medieval castle from the 11th century. It was acquired by the Benelli family in 1917. The location of the former Castrum corresponds exactly to the site where Castello Benelli now stands.

Bordonchio is a location steeped in historical significance, bearing witness to human habitation dating as far back as the 1st century A.D. Situated along the Via Popilia (or Via Romea), a vital ancient route extending from Rimini to Aquileia, this village once marked the path of Bordunculos. It is believed to have served as a likely post station along the journey, following the path laid out by Consul Popilius Lentate, which closely followed the Adriatic coastline.

The extraordinary pictorial cycle commissioned by Pope Gregory XIII and executed in the Vatican on the instructions of cosmographer Ignazio Danti between 1580 and 1585 vividly depicts the village nestled along the tumultuous shores of the Adriatic Sea.

The spaces at Castello Benelli
The new owner made several modifications to the castle, both externally and in terms of the decorative interior spaces, reclaiming the entire ground floor for residential use and connecting it to the two upper floors of the building. Of particular interest and charm is the painted decoration that covers all the walls of the Villa, forming a sort of iconographic repertoire developed in a modern key with motifs taken from the classical and Renaissance traditions.

Together with the courtyard buildings that are distinguished by its spacious portico adjoining the stable section, Castle Benelli represents an exceptional architectural complex. It has consistently upheld a tangible and harmonious connection between its structural elements and the surrounding countryside over the years, demonstrating a subtle balance that is frequently lacking in other contexts, and possessing a unique and captivating formal charm.

Historically, the Castle was dedicated to wine production, while today it focuses on the cultivation of wheat, sunflowers, corn and horticultural plants, with a dynamic agricultural company that has been the recipient of numerous awards.

Already a member of the Association of Italian Historic Homes (A.D.S.I.), Castello Benelli received further important accolades in 2023 and 2024, including the  Corona d’Oro ‘Golden Crown’ certification from the “Registro Italiano delle Dimore Storiche di Eccellenza” or ‘Italian Register of Historical Residences of Excellence’. Additionally, its expansive garden has been recognised by the “Grandi Giardini Italiani” network of Great Italian Gardens.

Facilities and services at Castello Benelli
The outdoor spaces are ideally suited for hosting open-air events and contribute significantly to the scenic beauty in a historical and artistic context, blending seamlessly with the natural surroundings.

It is also possible to set up part of your special event indoors: the frescoes in each of the rooms are unique and the ceilings and walls have recently been restored.

Since 2023, Castello Benelli has taken on the role of a Civic Venue where civil wedding ceremonies may be conducted. The Castle is open for guided tours, according to a set schedule of dates and times.