Avio Castle

Perched on the summit of a rocky spur of Monte Vignola, Castello di Avio (also known as the Castle of Sabbionara) overlooks the Vallagarina and the village of Avio. It is one of the most renowned castles in Trentino. Once a strategic defensive outpost controlling the valley, it belonged almost continuously to the noble Castelbarco family, who transformed it during the Middle Ages into a small feudal court frequented by artists and intellectuals.

Today the castle is open to the public and is owned by the FAI – Italian National Trust, with the exception of the Casa delle Guardie, managed by the Autonomous Province of Trento, and the Picadora Tower, which remains the property of the Castelbarco heirs.

History of Castello di Avio

The earliest historical sources mentioning a fortress on this site, referred to as Castellum Ava, date back to 1053. In the 12th century, the first documented owners were the Castelbarco feudal lords, who in 1411 bequeathed the castle to the Venetians. During the Venetian period, a chapel dedicated to Saint Michael was built, along with a façade decorated with the coats of arms of the Doges.

In 1509, the fortress was taken by the imperial troops of Maximilian I, who added his own heraldic symbols before mortgaging the property to the Counts of Arco. In the 17th century, the castle returned to the Castelbarco family. In 1977, Countess Emanuela Rezzonico di Pindemonte di Castelbarco donated the entire complex to the FAI, which restored it and has managed it ever since.

What to See at Castello di Avio

A visit to Castello di Avio is fascinating from an architectural, artistic and scenic point of view.

Architecturally, the complex blends the typical features of medieval Alpine fortresses with elements inspired by Scaliger residences. It includes an 11th‑century keep, five towers—including the Picadora Tower, once used for capital executions—the Baronial Palace, the Casa delle Guardie, the Chapel, and the celebrated Camera dell’Amore. The entire complex is enclosed by three rings of crenellated walls.

The artistic highlight is the extraordinary cycle of 14th‑century frescoes in the style of the Veronese International Gothic. In the Camera dell’Amore, located on the fourth floor of the keep, the frescoes celebrate themes of love, while in the Casa delle Guardie the paintings depict the arts of war.

The surrounding landscape is equally impressive: set among vineyards, the castle offers sweeping views over the Vallagarina and the Adige River.

Tickets

Admission with self‑guided visit

FAI members and Trentino Guest Card: free
Full price: €8
Reduced (ages 6–18): €5
Children up to 5 years: free (except during special events)
Students up to 25 years: €5
INTO members, Mécènes and Bienfaiteurs Amis du Louvre members, residents of Avio, visitors with disabilities and their companions: free
Family ticket (2 adults + children 6–18): €22

Admission with guided tour

FAI members and Trentino Guest Card: €5
Full price: €13
Reduced (ages 6–18): €8
Children up to 5 years: free
Students up to 25 years: €8
INTO members, Mécènes and Bienfaiteurs Amis du Louvre members, residents of Avio, visitors with disabilities and their companions: €5
Family ticket (2 adults + children 6–18): €35