ADSI National Day — The Castle Tells Its Story

A castle that opens its doors just once a year

In Villar Dora, a small town in the Metropolitan City of Turin overlooking the lower Susa Valley, stands a castle that few have had the privilege to explore. It is the Castello dei Conti Antonielli d'Oulx, a private historic residence that, with rare exceptions, remains closed to the public. The ADSI National Day — promoted by the Italian Historic Houses Association (Associazione Dimore Storiche Italiane) across the country — is one of those special occasions: for one day, the manor shares its history with visitors through free guided tours and a program of events throughout the village.

A medieval jewel of the Susa Valley

The first records of the castle date back to 1280, and it has remained in the same family since 1337. It is the only castle in the valley that escaped destruction by the French in 1691, a circumstance that has preserved its unique identity and charm. Illustrious figures such as Pope Martin V and King Charles Emmanuel III have stayed within its walls. The noble halls, the main floor rooms, and the views over the village offer visitors a journey through centuries of Piedmontese history, led by volunteer guides.

Beyond the castle: a village to discover

The event, titled "The Castle Tells Its Story", extends beyond the residence itself. The program includes visits to the San Rocco Chapel and the ancient parish church of Santi Vincenzo e Anastasio, two landmarks that highlight the town's devotion and sacred art. The experience is framed by the "Ti racconto Villar Dora!" exhibition, which features photographs, drawings, and poems created by local residents: a collective and affectionate portrait of the community.

A network event in the town of Villar Dora

"The Castle Tells Its Story" is the result of a collaboration between the Municipality of Villar Dora, the castle owners, the Pro Loco, and numerous local associations. The goal aligns with the national ADSI mission: to make private heritage, part of Italy's "largest open-air museum," accessible for at least one day. Villar Dora thus joins the circuit of dozens of Piedmontese historic houses that open for free each year, contributing to the promotion of the Turin province and the entire Piedmont region.

Visits by reservation

Access to the castle is free but limited. Guided tours are available by reservation only, with fixed time slots throughout the day. The meeting point is in Piazza San Rocco, in front of the Pro Loco stand, where groups will depart with their guides. A precious opportunity not to be missed for those who love history, architecture, and the traditions of the Susa Valley.