Rocca of Sala Baganza

Erected in 1477 by Gilberto III Sanvitale and later converted into a gorgeous summer residence by the Farnese in the 17th century. After extensive alterations, the only feature of the original four-sided fortress that has survived is the side overlooking the large paved quad, and an oblong section that carries traces of the original corbel tables that once crowned the walls.
Features worth a visit include the airy decorative embellishments of the vaults and walls in the interiors, sometimes framed in stuccowork, and dating back to the 16th – 18th centuries.

The 16th century frescoes are attributed to Orazio Sammachini, Bernardino Campi and Cesare Baglione. The Sala dell’Apoteosi meanwhile offers a superb suite of rococo decorations created by Sebastiano Galeotti in 1726. Attached to the central section of the fort is the chapel and a broad courtyard enclosed by various service buildings; on the north side is the Assunta oratory; built in 1795 at the behest of Ferdinand of Bourbon. The fortified manor became one of the summer retreats of Duchess Marie Louise.

The visit includes: 16th century halls and Assunta Oratory.
Due to the damages occured for the earthquake of December 23, 2008 the Farnese appartements cannot be visited.

The Rocca hosts the permanent exhibition of sculptures titled Sacroprofano by Jucci Ugolotti and the new Museum of Wine.

The castle is dog friendly, dogs can enter on the lead or in carriers for the small ones. Promotions and special offers for those carrying a dog: the Sanvitale castle has a huge free garden that dogs can enjoy (always on the lead). After a visit to the castle for a deserved rest or fun at open air.

Services:
visits in foreign language on reservation (cost euros 25,00 in english, french, german and chinese), tours for schools, brochures about the territory, bookshop, gadgets (guides, postcards, posters) , services for disabled visitors, lift, congress hall, possibility of photo shooting sessions, celebrations of religious or civil weddings.