FAI Summer Evenings at Avio Castle

FAI Summer Evenings at Avio Castle

As part of the major national FAI Summer Evenings campaign, promoted by FAI (the National Trust for Italy) across dozens of heritage sites from the north to the south of the country, Avio Castle in Sabbionara hosts a series of extraordinary evening openings throughout the summer. Perched on a hill overlooking the Vallagarina valley in the municipality of Avio, in the province of Trento (Trentino-Alto Adige), the manor offers an evocative experience as the sun dips behind the mountains and the ancient stones are bathed in warm, glowing light.

One of the most beautiful castles in Trentino

Avio Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval manors in the Alpine region. Donated to FAI in 1977 by Countess Emanuela di Castelbarco, it houses extraordinary 14th-century frescoes dedicated to themes of love and war, among the most famous examples of medieval secular painting in Italy. The walls, the tower, the ramparts, and the Guard House tell centuries of history, from the feudal families and the Castelbarco dynasty to the Venetian Republic.

The evening program

Evening openings take place every Saturday, featuring a guided tour at 7:00 PM followed by self-guided exploration of the site until 9:00 PM. Afterwards, visitors can conclude the evening with an aperitif in collaboration with the Locanda al Castello, with the option to book dinner and enjoy local flavors in a unique setting.

• Saturday evenings 2026: June 27; July 4, 11, 18, and 25; August 1, 22, and 29
• Guided tour: 7:00 PM
• Self-guided exploration: until 9:00 PM
• Aperitif and dinner: provided by Locanda al Castello (dinner by reservation)

Special evenings under the stars

Two events enrich the summer calendar. The Night of San Lorenzo on August 8 features a guided evening tour at 9:00 PM followed by stargazing in collaboration with experts from the Rovereto Civic Museum Foundation: a perfect opportunity to admire shooting stars from atop the castle walls. On August 15, Ferragosto, the castle hosts an evocative medieval dinner with a menu inspired by period recipes, preceded by a tour dedicated to the history of the fortress and medieval diet.

Why attend

Experiencing Avio Castle in the evening reveals a hidden side of the site: the cool night air, the silence of the Vallagarina countryside, the raking light that highlights the frescoes, and the sweeping views over the vineyards surrounding the hill. It is an experience that blends culture, nature, and fine food, perfect for families, couples, and history enthusiasts visiting southern Trentino.