Château d’Aymavilles

The castle of Aymavilles is located in the municipality of the same name in Valle d'Aosta, on a hill surrounded by vineyards along the road to Cogne. It is a unique castle that concentrates medieval and baroque phases in its exterior, the result of the architectural initiatives of various members of the Challant family who, over the centuries, adapted the building to the needs and taste of the time.

The first mention of the castle dates back to May 1207. The castle began to undergo considerable transformations from the 14th century onwards, with the passage to the Challants, an important noble family of the Aosta Valley.

During the 15th century, the castle was enriched with four corner towers, a double wall and the construction of the top floor.
A major building campaign dates back to the time of Joseph-Félix de Challant when, between 1713 and 1728, the spaces between the four corner towers were embellished with loggias, decorated with elegant stucco elements, while the interior of the mansion was considerably transformed and made more comfortable.

The creation of the terraced park contributes to giving the castle the appearance of a modern stately home surrounded by greenery, completely losing that of a medieval defensive fortress.

During the 19th and 20th centuries, following various changes of ownership, the castle underwent numerous internal alterations, linked to its use first as a house-museum by the last descendant of the Challant family, Vittorio Cacherano della Rocca, and later for summer holidays by families from Piedmont and Liguria. In 1970, the castle became part of the property of the Autonomous Region of Valle d'Aosta.

Reservation recommended especially on weekends. Reservations can be made at this link (by paying the pre-sale) or on site at one of the tourist offices that are Museum Pass sales points (Aosta, Pont Saint-Martin and Courmayeur). The season ticket holder must always pass by the ticket office before the visit.

• Guided tours at fixed times at 11.30 a.m., 3.30 p.m. and 5.30 p.m.

Accessibility: Site accessible to the physically disabled in wheelchairs. Adequate toilet facilities provided.