THE "MALINGRI DI BAGNOLO" CASTLE
On top of a hill, having a widespread view on the valley, lays the massive stone structure of the fortress. Since the beginng of the XI th century it has been a defense to the village below. It was originally made of a one story building and the tower, bound by a wooden flying bridge.
By the end of the XIV th century the tower with steps was added, along with the fresco depicting a Lady who holds two heraldic bearings. The style is similar to that of the Castle della Manta and it probably stands for the union of the two lineages of the Savoia and Acaja. Under these two heraldic bearings are the ones of the Malingri and Costa della Trinità families.

In the subsequent years, probably around 1500, new floors were added along with Ghibelline battlements, some of which can still be seen in the middle room. Other additions were the stone catwalk and the massive stiffening walls at the basement. The castle is surrounded by three concentric walls: the innermost includes the inner court, the second is partially preserved in the northern area, towards the wood. The third and most external wall can be seen beside the Immaculate Chapel (XVIII th century) and it still has an arch entrance. It is thought to have been very extensive and it probably ended near the so called "Castellino" farm, in a much lower position than the castle.

The fortress was used as a defence and the Lords were to abide a law that said that some soldiers had to be on post at all time. It gave protection to the people from the village during the assaults. Lately, during world war two, it became a hiding place for the partisans.

During the last two centuries, due to more calm periods, it was covered by a roof made of local stones and became at last a rural structure.

Having been restored by today's owner, it's one of the very few medieval fortresses in Piedmont that still preserves the original features and mood.