Castello di Montecavallo

A neo-gothic gem, nestled among the green hills of Biella and home to a wine- making tradition since 1279, the Castle of Montecavallo, although of relatively recent construction compared to several other medieval castles in the vicinity, nevertheless holds a certain architectural importance as it is a rare example of neo-Gothic architecture in the region of Biella.

It features a central square-shaped structure and a gallery adorned with glass panels connecting it to the chapel and another building, which is now used for agritourism accommodation, with wine cellars and charming guest rooms.

Perched on top of the hill, it also features a garden, a park, woodland and vineyards.

The history of Castello di Montecavallo
The Castello di Montecavallo was built by Filiberto Avogadro around 1830 in the neo-Gothic style, on the ruins of a fortified house that had belonged to the family since 1200.

The Romantic era led to the identification of medieval architecture as a symbol of the history and tradition of many European countries. One of the undisputed masterpieces of neo-Gothic architecture is the Houses of Parliament in London, built during the same period as Montecavallo Castle. The same taste for this neo-Gothic style was not so widespread in Italy, however, due to there not being any well-established references in terms of art, architecture, or design.

Filiberto Avogadro became acquainted with this modern, avant-garde style and, being a person of very open-minded ideas, he decided to adopt it for the construction of his residence.

The project was entrusted to architect Dupuy, who later also designed part of the old Hospital for the Infirm in Biella.

The Chapel, dedicated to St. Philip Neri, contains a marble Pietà by Cacciatori, a master sculptor from Carrara who was also responsible for the statues of Carlo Felice and his wife Maria Cristina in Altacomba Abbey, and a Guardian Angel created by Bienaimé, a sculptor and pupil of Thorvaldsen.

Facilities and services: accommodation, restaurant, weddings and private events in  the Piedmont region.

B&B accommodation
The Castle contains two charming rooms within the guest quarters, below the tower. In addition to the bedrooms, which are furnished with items from the same period as the main residence, guests have access to a communal lounge and free Wi-Fi connection and may also take full advantage of the park and garden area in front of the chapel.

Wine tasting
Tasting of the wines produced by Castello di Montecavallo can be reserved, and it is possible to purchase wine directly from the cellars.

Guided tours
In addition to the opportunity of appreciating the fine wines and learning about their production processes, visitors are able to explore the park, the private chapel and the icehouse during their visit, as well as discovering the history of the Castle.

Weddings and special events
With its courtyards, galleries and private chapel, Montecavallo Castle provides an undeniably charming and elegant setting for exclusive weddings and private events.

Places of interest in the vicinity
Oasi Zegna, Fondazione Pistoletto’s ‘Cittadellarte’, Ricetto di Candelo, Conca di Oropa, Biella Piazzo, Baraggia, Burcina, Lake Viverone.