Located near Salsomaggiore Terme in Emilia-Romagna, has a fascinating and mysterious history.
The castle was built in the early 11th century by Adalberto Pallavicino, founder of the powerful Pallavicino family from Parma. This family played a significant role in local history, ruling the area for centuries. The castle served as a stronghold and residence, bearing witness to the power struggles of the medieval era.
An intriguing aspect of the castle’s history is its connection to Dante Alighieri. The Aldighieri, relatives of the famous Tuscan poet, were lords of the castle for over two centuries (from 1315 to 1537). It is said that Dante himself may have stayed here, contributing to the aura of mystery and charm surrounding the structure.
Like many medieval castles, Contignaco Castle is also shrouded in legends of ghosts and apparitions. Visitors report eerie experiences, such as mysterious sounds and invisible presences wandering the ancient walls. These tales have fueled an interest in the paranormal and ghost stories, making the castle a popular destination for fans of the genre.
**1. The Ghost of Anthony of Arc**
One of the most well-known legends involves Anthony of Arc, a tyrant who was killed in 1289 for his atrocities. His ghost is said to still haunt the castle, wandering its walls in search of redemption or revenge.
**2. The Venetian Brigand**
Another popular story involves Ottavio Avogadro, a Venetian brigand who hid his loot in the castle. After being executed by the mob, his spirit is said to continue searching for the lost treasures, making the castle a place of haunting.
**3. Countess Dina Lodron**
In the 16th century, Countess Dina Lodron is at the center of a macabre legend in which she invited young men to the castle and then killed them, hiding her infidelity to her husband. A priest, in order to free the communities from her curse, killed her, and it is said that her spirit still wanders the castle.
**4. Christopher Altspaur and Revenge**
Legend has it that Christopher Altspaur, a nobleman of the castle, went mad and tried to kill his wife Orsola, convinced of her infidelity. It is said that now her ghost is thirsty for revenge and continues to search for evidence of her betrayal among the ruins of the castle.
Contignaco Castle has very active rooms throughout the location. Items of interest we found that were the most active were; the bedrooms and the dungeon was awesome interaction to say the least. The spirits here have loads to say! Thanks to the family’s collaboration with us. A wine tasting presentation of the location’s self-produced product will be included in the investigation fees. Purchase some bottles too, it is tasty! We loved it!
