The village developed around the Castle of the Counts Francesetti, an elegant townhouse from the 17th century. From this location, the family supervised activities related to the iron mines on Monte Calcante, a central part of an economy known for artisanally produced petal-shaped nails, the broche. These nails have left their mark on the doors of palaces and churches across Italy.
Site overview
The village developed around the “Castle”, a fine 17th-century townhouse that was expanded between the late 18th and early 19th centuries to include four distinctive square towers outlining its perimeter.
Visually appealing and steeped in history, this “castle” was where the Counts Francesetti made their main residence and operated their business activities, which were connected to their ownership of the iron mines on nearby Monte Calcante. For many years, these mines provided the raw materials for crafting the popular and unique petal-shaped nails called broche.
The history of Mezzenile, which relied on this activity for centuries, is deeply connected to the Francesetti family’s presence. Daily, large amounts of nails made for various purposes came from the forges, crafted by expert artisans: small masterpieces still visible today on the doors of palaces and churches across Italy.
How to visit the site
Hamlet of Villa Inferiore.
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