Open Castles – «Faith, Mystery and the Middle Ages» Weekend
A two-day journey through the Shroud, historical re-enactments, and theatrical tours at the Castle of Monastero Bormida
About Faith, Mystery and the Middle Ages
A weekend of faith, mystery, and the Middle Ages
The Castle of Monastero Bormida, in the heart of the Asti Langhe, presents a themed two-day event as part of the Open Castles circuit, an initiative that opens over a hundred castles, historic homes, and gardens in Piedmont to the public every Sunday from April to November. Here, in the town of Monastero Bormida (Province of Asti), the ancient manor transforms for a weekend into a path that weaves together spirituality, history, and medieval charm.
The castle and its history
The monumental complex originated in the 11th century as a Benedictine monastery, founded by monks from the Fruttuaria Abbey at the request of Marquis Aleramo of Montferrat. The most ancient part remains the extraordinary Romanesque bell tower, 27 meters high, featuring hanging arches in brick and stone. It became the fortified keep of the Del Carretto family at the end of the 14th century, later passing to the Della Rovere family, who expanded it into an elegant 17th-18th century residence. In 1876, the Polleri family of Genoa sold it to the Municipality, which owns it today.
What to see
- The Gipsoteca (plaster cast gallery) dedicated to the Turin sculptor Edoardo Rubino, on the main floor
- The Knights' Tower, featuring medieval weapons and costumes
- The iconic medieval bridge with four arches over the Bormida river
- Temporary exhibitions set up in the cellars and attic rooms
The two-day program
Saturday is dedicated to the mystery of the Shroud, featuring a scientific conference and an exclusive historical aperitif in the tower, set with authentic furniture and objects. On Sunday, as part of the Open Castles event, the castle opens with theatrical tours led by costumed re-enactors from the Custodes Viarum association, alongside classic guided tours and free-entry art and photography exhibitions.
Monastero Bormida, a pearl of the Asti Langhe
Nestled along the Bormida valley, Monastero Bormida is one of the most fascinating villages in the Asti Langhe, where medieval heritage blends with local flavors: wines, traditional products, and a culinary culture that provides the perfect backdrop for a day spent exploring history and nature.
Faith, Mystery and the Middle Ages — edition 2026
2026 Edition — June 6 and 7
The two-day themed event brought the Castle of Monastero Bormida to life with a program weaving together spirituality, history, and art. Saturday, dedicated to the mystery of the Shroud, featured a scientific conference and an exclusive historical aperitif in the castle tower; on Sunday, as part of the Open Castles circuit, the manor opened its halls for theatrical and guided tours, accompanied by free-entry exhibitions.
Programme Faith, Mystery and the Middle Ages 2026
Saturday, June 6
- 17:00 — Sala Ciriotti: Free-entry conference 'Who do you say that I am?', hosted by architect Marzio Garino (specializing in Shroud studies at the Pontifical Athenaeum Regina Apostolorum in Rome), dedicated to the Shroud and the latest scientific discoveries, with a life-size photographic reproduction of the Shroud on display.
- 19:00 — Castle Tower: 'Aperitif with History' (max 15 participants, booking required, paid event), a journey through history, legend, and atmosphere inspired by the Pupi Avati film 'The Knights of the Quest', set with authentic furniture and objects by the APS Custodes Viarum, featuring a tasting of wine, hippocras, and local products selected by Langamylove.
Sunday, June 7 — Open Castles
- 11:00 and 17:00: Theatrical tours led by costumed re-enactors from the APS Custodes Viarum.
- 15:00, 16:00 and 18:00: Classic guided tours.
Free-entry exhibitions
- Gipsoteca dedicated to the Turin sculptor Edoardo Rubino.
- 'The Scream of Nature' by Piero Racchi (attic rooms).
- Photographic reportage of the humanitarian trip to Ukraine by Claudio Repetto (cellars).
Aperitifs in the castle, picnics, and lunches at local farmhouses were also available upon reservation.
Highlights Faith, Mystery and the Middle Ages 2026
Prices Faith, Mystery and the Middle Ages 2026
Practical information — Faith, Mystery and the Middle Ages
Location
Castle of Monastero Bormida, Piazza Castello 1, 14058 Monastero Bormida (AT), Asti Langhe.
How to get there
By car from the A26 motorway (exit towards Acqui Terme) or the A6, following signs for the Bormida valley. The nearest train station is Acqui Terme, from where you can continue by car or bus.
Tickets
Theatrical tour with costumed re-enactors: €10 for adults, €5 for children under 14. Classic guided tour: €5 for adults, €3 for children under 14. The conference on the Shroud is free to attend; the aperitif in the tower requires payment and booking (limited spots).
Information and bookings
Tel. +39 0144 88012 / +39 339 3191536 (Loretta) – Municipality of Monastero Bormida.
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Where does it take place — Faith, Mystery and the Middle Ages
Castello di Monastero Bormida
Piazza Castello 1, 14058 Monastero Bormida