Castello di Domofole, Ancient stronghold on the Costiera dei Cech
The Castello di Domofole is located in the municipality of Mello, in the province of Sondrio, on the Costiera dei Cech, dominating the lower Valtellina. The first mention of the castle dates back to 1023. Over the centuries, the fortification has suffered destruction and reconstructions, until its final abandonment in the 16th century.
In recent years, the Municipality of Mello has taken care of restoring the remaining structures, making the site accessible to visitors.
🏗️ Structure and characteristics
- Quadrangular tower: the best-preserved part is a massive tower with a quadrangular base, lacking a roof, built from squared granite blocks, with some narrow openings.
- Perimeter walls: part of the walls surrounding the top of the hill and the remains of a residential area are still visible.
- Church of Santa Maria Maddalena: located to the north of the tower, it does not belong to the original construction of the castle and was built at the end of the 16th century.
🥾 Access and visit
The castle can be reached on foot via paths that wind through the woods of the Costiera dei Cech. The visit is free and open to the public, but it is advisable to pay attention to the uneven terrain and to wear appropriate footwear.
ℹ️ Useful information
- Reference municipality: Mello (SO)
- Location: Costiera dei Cech
- Access: free
- Opening hours: always accessible
- Entrance: free
🚗 How to get there
- By car: from Morbegno, follow the directions to Mello.
- Parking: available in the town center; from there, continue on foot following the marked paths.
