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Castle · Aosta, Vale de Aosta
Castello di Fénis
Castelo dos Challant, 12 km from Aosta, with double walls, towers and a courtyard with Gothic frescoes of Saint George and of sages holding bands inscribed with proverbs.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Castello di Fénis
The castelo de Fénis stands on a low hill in the middle of the Dora Baltea valley, about 12 km east of Aosta. It is one of the best-known medieval castles in the Aosta Valley. It appears for the first time in a 1242 document as the property of the Challant family, viscounts of Aosta, and acquired its current form in the 14th century under Aimone di Challant and his son Bonifácio, who transformed it into a prestigious residence.
Unlike other castles in the valley, built on cliffs, Fénis occupies a site without natural defences. For this reason the double walls with battlements and the towers served both to defend and to impress. The complex has a central pentagonal body with towers at the corners.
The inner courtyard is the best-known part. A semicircular staircase leads to wooden galleries, and the walls are covered with early 15th-century Gothic frescoes attributed to the painter Giacomo Jaquerio and his workshop: Saint George slaying the dragon above the staircase and, in the galleries, sages and prophets holding bands with proverbs in Old French. The guided visit also includes the kitchen, the great hall and the chapel, with more frescoes and antique furniture.
Around it, the meadows and mountains give the castle a postcard image of the valley.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour including the guided tour.
Best time
In the morning, to avoid the crowds. Visits are guided and at set times; check and book in advance, especially in summer.
How to get there
It is about 12 km from Aosta, roughly a 20-minute drive via the state road SS26. By regional train to Nus station and then about 3 km, or by regional bus.
Tip
Notice the proverbs on the bands carried by the sages in the courtyard: they are written in Old French and reflect the court culture of the time.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castello di Fénis
What to see at Fénis Castle?
The double walls, the towers and the courtyard with Gothic frescoes of Saint George and scholars holding bands with proverbs in Old French.
How to get from Aosta to Fénis Castle?
By car about 12 km, roughly 20 minutes, or by train to Nus and then about 3 km.
Is the visit to Fénis Castle guided?
Yes, at set times. Book in advance, especially in summer.