Retenga Castle

The village of Fontecchio hosts the ancient Castle of Retenga, which was inhabited since the Italic period. The defensive structure of the castle dates back to XV-XVI century. Inside the circle of walls, there is the ancient bakery, which still preserves all ancient elements.

Description

The castle of Retenga, around which the village of Fontecchio developed. The village of Fontecchio hosts the ancient Castle of Retenga, which was inhabited since the Italic period. The defensive structure of the castle dates back to XV-XVI century when restoration works were carried out. The fortified structure is still well visible and has an ellipsoidal shape. Inside, it used to have a church dedicated to Saint Peter. Today we can only see ruins of the ancient church. Inside the circle of walls, and as part of the Castle of Retenga, there is the ancient bakery, where people used to go to have their bread baked. The bakery preserves perfectly all ancient elements of a home-shop. Still inside the circle of walls, people can see the beautiful fountain of XIV century, which is the symbol of Fontecchio.

Responsibility

The Municipality of Fontecchio Tel +39 0862 85131

Role

The circle of walls is still well visible, which is very valuable. However, the Church is ruined nowadays. The function of the castle was defensive, whereas nowadays it has a historical value. Local imporatnce

Potential usability

Inside the village, even if in ruins, people can feel the ancient atmosphere. However, this cultural value is not exploited and known in the market; a huge and modern TV antenna brings all visitors back to the reality; the place has some development potential but is not taken into duly consideration. Its potentials could be a restoration of the church which was built inside the circle of walls and a better valorisation of the ancient bakery with guided tours, for instance.

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