Antiquarium – Ecomuseum of the Ceronda Valley
A journey into the medieval history of the Lanzo Valleys.
Polychrome ceramics, hunting weapons, and valuable frescoes testify to the history of the Castle of Baratonia, with records dating back to 1090. These artefacts, discovered in the 1970s, offer insight into the medieval Piedmontese nobility.
Site overview
The Antiquarium welcomes visitors with a fine display case featuring all the medieval finds from the Castle of Baratonia (Varisella), uncovered during excavations by the Archaeological Association of the Lanzo Valleys between 1970 and 1975.
The finds include food containers, terracotta and soapstone cooking pots, painted tableware, and polychrome ceramics from the 14th and 15th centuries that once decorated the tables of local lords.
The artefacts include fibulae, crossbow arrowheads used for hunting large game such as deer and wild boar, and horseshoes. Also, fragments of frescoes have been found, including a valuable fresco from the apse of the castle chapel that dates back to the late 11th century. The castle, first documented in 1090, is among the oldest in the Turin area.
Its remains stand on a secluded hilltop above the ancient Church of San Biagio. In 1356, it was damaged during a raid ordered by Amadeus VI, the Green Count, in his war with his cousin James of Acaia.
At the Antiquarium, visitors can view multimedia films that tell the history and fortunes of the Viscounts of Baratonia, a prominent family among the medieval Piedmontese aristocracy, whose founding ancestor was Vitelmo Bruno.
How to visit the site
From Fiano, follow Via Visconti di Baratonia. At the first roundabout, take the second exit toward Varisella. The road leads to the Town Hall, where parking is available. The Antiquarium is located next to the Town Hall.
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