Ever wonder what secrets lie behind ancient walls? The Castello di Roncade is one of the most unique examples of living Renaissance architecture in Northern Italy. It anchors the town of Roncade. This enchanting place is nestled in the Veneto countryside between Treviso and Venice.
The Castello di Roncade is not just a building. It is a testament to Venetian culture and history. The castle stands as the only pre-Palladian villa enclosed by medieval walls. These walls have majestic battlements.
Imagine stepping back in time. The land where the Castello di Roncade stands was gifted to the Counts of Collalto in 900 AD by Ottone II. Cangrande della Scala later destroyed it. In the 16th century, Girolamo Giustinian a Venetian nobleman rebuilt it. He followed the original building’s layout. This is the castle we admire today.
Look closely at the walls towers and moat. They were constructed just before the main villa was completed in 1508. The renowned Venetian architect Mauro Coducci designed them. He also built the clock tower in Piazza San Marco in Venice.
Inside the Castello di Roncade’s private chapel, you can find busts of Girolamo Giustinian and his wife Agnesina Badoer. The Giustinian family left a significant mark on the history of the Serenissima Republic of Venice. Doges Stefano and Marco Antonio were part of this family.
In the early 20th century, the Baroni Ciani Bassetti family acquired the Castello di Roncade. The family has Trentino origins and ancient agricultural traditions. In 1930, Barone Tito Ciani Bassetti chose the Castello di Roncade. It was to be the family’s home. It was also the center of his dream. He envisioned a wine business in an ancient land known for viticulture since Roman times.
Today Vincenzo Ciani Bassetti leads the winery. It surrounds the Castello di Roncade. The family has continued to enhance the castle. They have matched their commitment in the vineyard and cellar.
During your visit take note of the castle’s rectangular layout. It is defined by turreted walls and a moat. Inside stands the main house with two long wings on each side. At the end of the northern wing is a small private oratory. The entrance on the western side features two cylindrical towers.
Notice the main facade of the house. It has a double loggia with round arches and Istrian stone columns. A triangular pediment adorned with frescoes crowns it all.
The Castle of Roncade is more than just a historical site. It’s a place where history, architecture and the art of winemaking come together. It offers a unique glimpse into the rich heritage of the Veneto region.