Perched majestically on a hill overlooking the serene waters of Lake Santa Giustina, Castel Cles stands as a timeless sentinel, bearing witness to centuries of history in the heart of the Val di Non valley. This medieval fortress, nestled near the main village of Cles, has long captured the imagination of visitors with its storied past and architectural grandeur.
Dating back to the 12th century, Castel Cles boasts a rich and tumultuous history, marked by periods of prosperity, conflict, and restoration. It first graced historical records in the annals of the medieval era, a time when feudal lords and noble houses vied for control over the rugged landscape of northern Italy.
The castle’s fortunes ebbed and flowed over the centuries, weathering the storms of war and rebellion. In the early 15th century, and again during the peasant uprisings, Castel Cles suffered significant damage, bearing the scars of conflict on its weathered stone walls. Yet, in a testament to resilience and determination, it rose from the ashes, restored to its former glory by Prince-Bishop Bernard of Cles in the elegant Renaissance style.
Further restoration efforts in 1597, commissioned by the nobleman Aliprando, added to the castle’s allure, enhancing its architectural splendor and reinforcing its position as a bastion of power and prestige in the region. However, tragedy struck once more when an arson attack ravaged one of the castle’s towers and the northern wing of the building, leaving a poignant reminder of the fragility of human endeavors in the face of adversity.
Despite the trials and tribulations that have befallen Castel Cles, its interior remains a treasure trove of art and culture, offering visitors a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of its illustrious inhabitants. Among its most prized possessions are the exquisite frescoes adorning its chambers, dating back to the 16th century and attributed to the court painter Marcello Fogolino.
Of particular note is the “Saletta delle Metamorfosi,” a room adorned with stunning frescoes depicting scenes from Ovid’s Metamorphoses. Here, visitors can lose themselves in a world of myth and legend, as vibrant colors and intricate details bring ancient tales to life in breathtaking fashion.
As visitors wander through the hallowed halls of Castel Cles, they are transported back in time, enveloped in the aura of centuries past. Each stone bears the weight of history, each fresco tells a story, and each whisper of the wind carries echoes of bygone eras.
Today, Castel Cles stands as more than just a relic of the past—it is a living testament to the enduring spirit of the Val di Non valley, a symbol of resilience, beauty, and cultural heritage. As visitors gaze upon its imposing silhouette against the backdrop of Lake Santa Giustina, they are reminded of the timeless allure of history, waiting to be discovered and cherished by generations to come.
