Discover the Castle of Poppi
The Poppi Castle, which stands on a hill overlooking the Casentino valley, is one of the most fascinating monuments in eastern Tuscany. Built between the late 12th and early 14th century by the noble Guidi family, this castle is renowned for its majesty and well-preserved architecture.
With an imposing tower and mighty walls, the castle is a unique example of medieval architecture that has withstood the passage of time. Today, Poppi Castle still houses the municipality, maintaining its central role in the administrative life of the town.
Its strategic position and structural integrity make it a symbol of Casentino history and culture, visible from most of the valley and often portrayed in fascinating panoramas that change with the seasons and times of day.
History of Poppi Castle
The history of Poppi Castle is closely intertwined with that of the Guidi family, one of the most powerful feudal families in Tuscany and Romagna. The first documented news dates back to 1191, but its foundation is probably two or three centuries earlier, dating back to the period of the Longobard and Frankish invasions.
This castle has always played a central role as the residence of local political or administrative power, ensuring its preservation over time. The square tower, the original core of the structure, still dominates the Casentino valley. Counts Guidi made Poppi the centre of their vast estates, residing there for almost four hundred years.
During this period, the castle was enlarged and transformed from a simple fortress into a noble residence. Notable historical events included the surrender of Francesco Guidi to the Florentine Republic in 1440, marking the end of the Guidi family’s rule in the region.
Architecture and Structure of the Castle
The architecture of Poppi Castle is a fascinating example of medieval evolution, characterised by a fusion of defensive and residential elements.
The original nucleus, represented by the square tower, was intended for both defence and sighting. Over time, starting in 1274, Count Simone Guidi initiated a series of extensions that transformed the fortress into a stately home.
The castle has an asymmetrical structure, with later additions including the rectangular keep and a wing opposite the tower. A stone staircase, built in the 15th century, connects the various floors and adds a touch of elegance to the inner courtyard.
The façade, decorated with mullioned windows with two lights and noble coats of arms, reflects the influence of famous architects such as Lapo di Cambio and Arnolfo di Cambio, although there is no documentary evidence of this. The castle tower was a model for the construction of the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence.
Historical Events: The Battle of Campaldino
Poppi Castle was the scene of important historical events, including the famous Battle of Campaldino, which took place on 11 June 1289. This decisive clash between the Guelph troops of Florence and the Ghibelline troops of Arezzo took place in the vicinity of the castle, under the imposing gaze of its walls.
The Guelph victory consolidated Florence’s power in the region, marking a significant turning point in Tuscan history. Moreover, in 1440, the castle was also the site of the surrender of the last Guidi count, Francesco, to the Florentine Republic, which marked the end of the Guidi rule in Casentino.
These historical events left a lasting imprint on Poppi Castle, making it a symbol of resistance and political change. Today, the memory of these battles is alive inside the castle, which houses a museum dedicated to the Battle of Campaldino.
The Poppi Castle as Residence and Administrative Headquarters
Poppi Castle has always played a crucial role in the political and administrative life of the region. Initially, it was the noble residence of the Guidi counts, who transformed it from a simple fortress into an elegant noble palace. The solidity of its structure and continuous maintenance have allowed the castle to maintain its magnificence over the centuries.
This continuous use has preserved the castle from the degradation that affected many other medieval structures. Its rooms, once the venue for banquets and noble gatherings, now host institutional meetings, conferences and cultural events, keeping alive the link between the glorious past and contemporary life in Casentino.
Dante Alighieri and the Poppi Castle
The link between Dante Alighieri and the Poppi Castle is one of the most fascinating aspects of its history. During his exile from Florence in 1310, Dante was a guest of Count Guido di Simone da Battifolle, residing in the castle for about a year. It is said that it was within these ancient walls that Dante wrote part of the XXXIII canto of the Inferno of the Divine Comedy.
Dante’s presence at Poppi Castle underlines the importance of the manor as a refuge and cultural centre, as well as its role in the intellectual life of the time. A bust of Dante, placed in the square in front of the castle, celebrates this historical link, reminding visitors of the illustrious guest who stayed there.
This episode further enriches the historical and cultural value of the castle, making it a symbol of Casentino.
Restoration and Conservation of Poppi Castle
The Poppi Castle has benefited from numerous restoration works that have preserved its integrity and beauty. Among the most significant restorations is that of the 19th century, when the tower was damaged by lightning.
During this intervention, the tower was converted into a bell tower, reducing its height and adding a belfry in place of the crown of Ghibelline merlons. In the 20th century, further restoration work was carried out on the battlements, mullioned windows and other parts of the masonry, restoring the castle to its original medieval appearance.
These interventions not only repaired the damage caused by time, but also enhanced the architectural and artistic elements of the castle. The care devoted to the conservation of the castle makes it an exceptional example of historical heritage protection. Thanks to these restorations, Poppi Castle continues to be a cultural and tourist landmark, attracting visitors from all over the world.
The Casentino Valley and the Village of Poppi
Located not far from the B&B Cento Passi dal Duomo the Casentino valley is indeed a region worth exploring for its beauty and historical richness. Surrounded by lush forests, green hills and crossed by the Arno River, this area of Tuscany is in fact a veritable treasure trove of history, nature and architecture.
At the centre of this fascinating landscape is the village of Poppi, dominated by its imposing castle. Visiting Poppi means plunging into a perfectly preserved medieval atmosphere, where every corner tells stories of nobility, battles and illustrious personalities such as Dante Alighieri.
The village, with its cobbled streets, ancient churches and charming little squares, offers an authentic and engaging experience. Exploring Poppi Castle and the surrounding village is an unmissable journey that allows you to discover the history and beauty of the Casentino in a unique context.