A Journey Through Time: The Castle of Monselice

As a former professor of European history, I have always been drawn to the stories that ancient walls and cobblestones whisper to those who listen. My recent visit to Monselice, a walled city in the Veneto region, was no exception. The Monselice Tour promised a deep dive into the past, and it delivered in spades.

The tour began at the Castello di Monselice, a fortress that has stood the test of time, witnessing the rise and fall of many noble families. The Carraresi, the Scaligeri, the Visconti, and the Este all left their mark on this imposing structure. As I wandered through its halls, I was transported back to a time when knights roamed these corridors, and the air was thick with the intrigue of courtly life. The castle is now a museum, housing a remarkable collection of medieval furniture, weapons, and tapestries. Each piece tells a story, and I found myself lost in the tales of valor and betrayal that these artifacts silently recount.

Our guide, Martina, was a font of knowledge, her passion for history evident in every word. Her insights into the lives of the castle’s former inhabitants brought the past to life in a way that only someone with her background in history and archaeology could. It was a privilege to learn from someone who not only knows the facts but also understands the nuances of the stories that shaped this region.

The Sacred Route: Via del Santuario

After our exploration of the castle, we embarked on a walk along the Via del Santuario, a path that has been described as the most beautiful promenade in the Veneto. This sacred route is lined with villas and the famous Seven Churches, reminiscent of the Seven Basilicas of Rome. As we strolled along this historic path, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of reverence for the countless pilgrims who have walked this way before us.

The highlight of this part of the tour was undoubtedly the Villa Duodo, a stunning example of Palladian architecture. Perched high above the fortress of Monselice, the villa offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The church dedicated to San Giorgio, attached to the villa, marks the end of the pilgrimage route. Standing there, I felt a profound connection to the past, as if the spirits of those who had come before were walking alongside us.

Chiara, our other guide, shared her linguistic talents with us, effortlessly switching between languages to ensure everyone in our small group felt included. Her enthusiasm for the region was infectious, and her stories added a personal touch to the historical narrative. It was clear that both she and Martina have a deep love for their homeland, and their passion made the experience all the more enriching.

A Seamless Experience

One of the most impressive aspects of the Monselice Tour was the seamless organization. Despite it being the low season, every effort was made to ensure we could see as much as possible. The small group size, with a maximum of seven travelers, allowed for a relaxed and intimate experience. We were picked up from our hotel in Abano Terme and returned at the end of the day, making the logistics effortless.

The dedication of our guides, Chiara and Martina, was evident in every detail. Their commitment to providing an exceptional experience was matched only by their knowledge and love for the region. It was a joy to explore Monselice with them, and I left with a deeper appreciation for this enchanting corner of Italy.

As I reflect on my time in Monselice, I am reminded of the power of history to connect us to the past and to each other. This tour was more than just a journey through a beautiful city; it was an opportunity to step back in time and walk in the footsteps of those who came before us. I look forward to returning to this region and uncovering more of its hidden treasures.