Zavattarello

Our tour continues in Zavattarello, considered to be the most historic village in Pavia and one of the most beautiful in all of Lombardy, is worth visiting for the Castello Dal Verme, the castle of famed mercenary captain Jacopo Dal Verme, on the hill overlooking the town, but also for the ancient houses of Su Di Dentro (the name given to the village’s Medieval centre that retains its original layout to this day), with stone buildings crowning its stunningly charming Medieval square.

A centuries-old charm inhabitats the village, as typified by its winding streets and narrow alleyways which lead up to the imposing Castle, recently renovated and now turned into a museum of contemporary art. Built entirely in stone with a fortified enclosure, 40 rooms, stables, a chapel, ramparts and a stunning view over the local area from the tower, it is recognised as one of the most important building complexes in the region. 
After all this exploring you will need to refuel, and when it comes to good food, you are really spoiled  for choice in Zavattarello . Due to its geographic location, the village has a culinary heritage that embrace traditional dishes from across both the Oltrepò Pavese e del Piacentino. A region rich in mushrooms, and truffles, this abundance is in turn reflected in the local cuisine: autumn is the season of porcini mushroom risotto, polenta, ravioli di brasato, pumpkin tortelli and cured game. Another local product guaranteed to get you salivating is the salame crudo,  a cured pork sausage made using centuries-Lombard recipes.