The secrets of Châtelard ruins in La Salle

Where are the Châtelard ruins located?

The Châtelard ruins are located in La Salle, a village in the Aosta Valley not far from Morgex and Courmayeur. The panoramic position allows tourists to admire an extraordinary mountain landscape, with views of the peaks and vineyards surrounding the village.

Who built the Châtelard castle?

The Châtelard castle was built in the first half of the 13th century by Rodolfo Grossi, bishop of Aosta and advisor to Peter II of Savoy. This dual figure, both religious and political, gives the castle a special significance: it was not only a fortified residence but also a symbol of power and control over the territory.

Why was the Châtelard castle important in the Middle Ages?

The Châtelard castle had a strategic function. Its dominant position allowed it to control the valley and the passageways. It was both a defensive structure and a center of power linked to the Church and the Savoy. For today's tourists, the ruins evoke the strength and importance that the village of La Salle had in the Middle Ages.

What remains of the Châtelard castle today?

Today, tourists can only admire the ruins of Châtelard. Parts of the walls and traces of the ancient towers remain. Despite the state of ruin, the atmosphere is suggestive and allows one to imagine how the fortress must have appeared centuries ago. Walking in the surroundings means taking a step back in time and breathing an authentically medieval air.

Is it possible to visit the Châtelard ruins?

The ruins are not museum-like and cannot be visited like a fully preserved castle. However, visitors can get close and observe the stones, the remains of the walls, and the panoramic position. It is a perfect place for photographs and for those who love historical villages.

How to reach the Châtelard ruins from La Salle?

From the main square of the village, one can reach Châtelard with a pleasant walk or by bicycle. The route is short and offers suggestive views of the village and the surrounding mountains. For cycling enthusiasts, it is a simple itinerary suitable for families as well.

What to see around the Châtelard ruins?

In the vicinity of the ruins, tourists can discover: the numerous medieval fortified houses of La Salle, Maison Gerbollier, the medieval residence now home to the municipality, and the small villages and hamlets surrounding La Salle, rich in alpine tradition. The Châtelard castle is therefore the starting point for an open-air medieval itinerary.

Why do tourists love the Châtelard ruins?

Because they offer an authentic experience, away from overly touristy places. The charm of ancient stones, the silence, and the nature surrounding the ruins create a unique atmosphere. Châtelard is not a reconstructed castle: it is a true fragment of the Middle Ages that has survived centuries of history.

How to include the Châtelard ruins in a trip to the Aosta Valley?

A half-day stop to visit La Salle and the ruins, a panoramic stop along the way to Courmayeur and Mont Blanc, and a historical walk or bike ride to combine with a visit to Maison Gerbollier and other medieval buildings.

What is the best time to see the Châtelard ruins?

Each season offers a different atmosphere: in summer, the sun illuminates the stones and the alpine landscape; in autumn, the vineyards color the valley around the castle; in winter, the snow transforms the ruins into a suggestive picture; and in spring, the flowering meadows make the visit particularly pleasant.

Why visit the Châtelard ruins in La Salle?

Because they tell an important part of the history of the Aosta Valley. Because they allow you to discover the figure of Rodolfo Grossi, bishop and advisor to the Savoy. Because they offer a breathtaking landscape and a dive into the Middle Ages. Those seeking authenticity and history will find in the Châtelard ruins a must-see place.