Castello di Solimago

Solimago Castle is part of the Fattori property in Solferino (in the region of Mantua). It is a charming agritourism property, comprising 6 apartments that have been tastefully renovated in keeping with sustainable bio-architecture principles. The apartments are located in the outbuildings of the Palazzo Fattori, a 16th-century mansion dating back to the time of the Gonzaga family, originally the birthplace of the Dukes of Mantua and later converted into a stately residence with an adjoining agricultural farmyard. The residence was the scene of the Battle of Solferino in 1859: it is believed that it was here that Henri Dunant first conceived the idea of the International Red Cross. Organic farming is cultivated on the farm’s 12 hectares, producing olives, horticultural crops and fruit, as well as the premium grapes from which “Solimago” wines are made.

The history of the Castle of Solimago
Solimago is a tiny, enchanting, self-contained village in Pozzo Catena, the original historic centre of Solferino, and is positioned on the Morainic Hills just south of Lake Garda. Traces of human settlements have existed here since the Neolithic period, with extensive archaeological findings indicating the presence of a unique pile-dwelling civilization.

The origins of the site most likely began in the form of a Roman villa in the 1st century AD, contemporaneous with the famous Villa of Catullus in Sirmione, and other similar structures in the vicinity of Lake Garda, which was regarded as a popular holiday destination even then. Solferino subsequently experienced significant development during the Middle Ages, as evidenced by the imposing Rocca, now known as ‘La Spia d’Italia’, a lookout tower on the highest hill in the area, which was visually connected to other towers and appropriately named the ‘Spy of Italy’. A number of buildings in Solimago, now tastefully renovated, also date back to this period.

During the Renaissance period, around the mid-16th century, the fiefdom of Solferino was granted to Orazio Gonzaga, who constructed the Castle, still one of the most picturesque spots in the region, with its splendid panoramas of Lake Garda. A grand mansion was also built at this time, originally believed to be a workshop or possibly a mint. Following various historical events, after which the Gonzaga family was forced to cede Mantua to the Habsburgs, the palazzo and its outbuildings were acquired by the Costanza-Fattori/Licata family. For about three centuries, the entire estate thrived as an agricultural enterprise and a silk factory producing high-quality silk.

Solferino became historically significant throughout Italy and Europe on 24 June 1859, when it was the site of the decisive battle between the Franco-Piedmontese army, led by Napoleon III in person, and the Austrian forces commanded by Emperor Franz Joseph. After heavy losses with thousands of young lives sacrificed on both sides, the French triumphed over the Austrians on the very hill where the Solimago vineyards grow so peacefully today, liberating much of Northern Italy and paving the way for Italian unification in 1861. Henri Dunant, a Swiss businessman who witnessed the generous assistance offered by the townspeople to all the wounded soldiers, was duly inspired and went on to found a voluntary relief organisation in Geneva that was to become the International Red Cross.

Today, Solferino is a vibrant and peaceful town immersed in greenery, recognised as a top-quality tourist destination. It has been honoured with the Touring Club orange flag symbol. Vineyards, olive trees and many varieties of organic fruits and vegetables are cultivated here, similarly to Solimago.

Facilities and services at Castello di Solimago: a charming agriturismo and wedding venue by Lake Garda.
Event organisation: Available only with vegetarian catering.
Hospitality period: From March to November.
Tours of the Castle visits: by reservation and for a fee.
Catering: Exclusively vegetarian and vegan meals served.