Garlasco

Between the 14th and 15th centuries, the Castle of Garlasco was so important that it earned the title propugnaculum Papiae, meaning “bulwark of Pavia,” because of its significant role in the city’s defensive system.

Today, only the imposing tower remains of the ancient fortress. It still features its original Ghibelline battlements, elegant saw-tooth brick decorations, and the corbels that once supported the drawbridge—elements that miraculously survived the destruction inflicted in 1524 by Giovanni delle Bande Nere.

At the back of Piazza della Repubblica lies Piazza Piccola, where the tower stands. The medieval, square-shaped structure includes a passageway with double-vaulted arches at its base. After being abandoned for a long time, it had fallen into serious decay by the late 1970s, but the Municipality of Garlasco undertook a careful restoration project that revealed the original fortified structure, including the battlements and the corbel imprints that had previously been walled up.

According to historical records, a castle was built—or rebuilt—in Garlasco in the 14th century. Its perimeter is still partially visible in the layout of nearby buildings and in the urban structure of the northwestern corner of the oldest part of town. It was one of the most important castles in Lomellina, both for its strength and for its strategic location, which earned it the name propugnaculum Papiae. However, it was dismantled by Venetian troops in 1524 during the military episode known as the “Sack of Garlasco,” and only a few traces remain today. The brick gate-tower, the most distinctive and easily recognizable element of the complex, has been preserved.

THE PILGRIMS’ HOUSE

Strongly desired by the municipal administration to provide a welcoming point for travelers along the Via Francigena, the Casa del Pellegrino (Pilgrims’ House) was officially inaugurated in June 2022.

This fully renovated apartment can accommodate the growing number of pilgrims walking the ancient route followed in 990 AD by Archbishop Sigeric of Canterbury on his return journey from Rome, where he had received the Pallium from the Pope. To date, the Pilgrims’ House has hosted visitors from all over the world.

The Municipality of Garlasco provides a three-room apartment consisting of a kitchen, two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a living room, for a total of 6–8 beds. The accommodation is also equipped with a washing machine and microwave oven.

Pilgrims can book their stay—preferably at least 24 hours in advance—by sending an email to bibliogarlasco@yahoo.it or a WhatsApp message to +39 334 3435810.
The apartment is located in Via Santissima Trinità, near the Municipal Library.