A fortified tower house to assert power and protect oneself from enemies
Eight or ten centuries ago, people did not use alarms and armoured doors to stay safe at home. Still, the nobility enclosed themselves in imposing fortified towers that became their principal residences. One such medieval architecture can still be found in Casazza, at the centre of a fortified village among the hills and mountains of Val Cavallina.
Colognola is a picturesque, tiny hamlet of Casazza that can be reached after a few hairpin bends climbing up the mountain. Among the narrow streets of this little hamlet is one of the best-preserved monumental tower houses in the entire valley, built in local stone.
The tower dates back to the 13th century and was originally much taller. But it was scaled down when the Suardi family, the landlords, had all their property confiscated by the Venetian Republic.
Forget large panoramic windows: medieval defensive structures like this had small windows with round arches and loopholes to limit the risk of enemy intrusion. Windows and doors, such as the entrance on the ground floor, were decorated with herringbone motifs.
The tower of Colognola is part of an ancient fortified complex that included houses for the settlers who worked the land, the home of the lord, Antonio Suardi, and the tower, where he and his family took refuge in case of danger.
DETAILS OF INTEREST:
Tower and historic centre (13th-16th century).
VISIT INFORMATION:
– Free open-air tour lasting about 15′;
– Parking: YES.
