Biselli Castle (Norcia)

History of the Biselli Castle in Norcia

The castle was built in the 13th century and is recorded as "Castri Biselli". Its role was to control the Corno valley and the network of roads that ran through it, at a time of conflict with the neighboring territories of Spoleto and Cerreto. Biselli, Argentigli, Onde and Serravalle served partly as guard posts and partly as post stations.

When it lost its role in controlling the valley-floor route, the village began to empty. In 1971 it had 12 inhabitants. The earthquake of September 19, 1979, of magnitude 5.8, led to its final abandonment. Later tremors made the damage worse.

What to see at the Biselli Castle

The most recognizable feature is the square watchtower, the historic symbol of the village. The houses cluster around it, following the typical layout of hilltop castles. On the spur that juts out over the Corno, the sharp corner of the triangle was especially well fortified.

A good stretch of the ring of walls with its defensive features is still standing. Some houses have been restored, but most are uninhabited or have collapsed. The parish church of San Leonardo, at the far end of the village, has now been stripped of the furnishings and devotional objects it once held.

How to visit the Biselli Castle

The village is reached by a few meters of dirt road from the state road below. Before setting out, it is advisable to ask the tourist offices in Norcia for information and, since these are buildings damaged by earthquakes, to avoid entering them.

Where the Biselli Castle is located

Biselli is a hamlet of the municipality of Norcia, in Umbria, a few kilometers from the main town. It lies along the Tre Valli Umbre, the road that runs from Spoleto to Norcia, in the Valnerina.

Around the Biselli Castle in Norcia

Nearby are the Gole di Biselli (Biselli gorges), among the most appreciated natural spots in the area. Along the same valley are other fortified villages belonging to the same defensive system, such as the Onde Castle in Norcia.