Imagine stepping into a time capsule, transported to a bygone era of grandeur and elegance. The Palazzo Castiglioni, nestled in the heart of Cingoli, offers a unique glimpse into the history of a noble Italian family.
A Family’s Legacy
This aristocratic residence, once home to the Marquis of Castiglioni, is open to visitors by appointment. We were fortunate enough to explore its captivating rooms, including the very birthplace of Pope Pius VIII in 1761! While the family spends the spring and summer months within the palazzo’s walls, the rest of the year finds them in Rome.
A Journey Through Time
Our knowledgeable guide, Simone Sgalla, welcomed us with open arms and a wealth of information. He led us through the grand entrance, originally designed for carriages. Although the restaurant, “La Cantina del Palazzo,” was temporarily closed during our visit, we imagined the lively atmosphere that must have filled these rooms.
The palazzo, constructed in the 17th century, boasts over 120 rooms, each with its own story to tell. We navigated a labyrinth of corridors, climbed staircases, and even ventured into the vaulted cellar – a true testament to the building’s impressive scale. Simone’s guidance was invaluable as we explored this historical gem.
Echoes of the Past
Our first stop was the kitchen, where a massive fireplace and rows of cookware hinted at feasts prepared centuries ago. We then wandered through the beautifully preserved restaurant rooms and descended into the former snow cellar, a cool and damp space that still holds a sense of history.
An oil lamp, tucked away in an alcove, served as a reminder of a time before electricity. Simone chuckled, sharing how he would have been endlessly switching lights on and off for our tour in the past. Thankfully, modern amenities made our journey much more pleasant!
Rooms of Grandeur
A magnificent staircase led us to a room featuring a grand mantelpiece and door frames salvaged from other historic houses. The private chapel, with its breathtaking sky-blue frescoes adorning the ceiling, was a true highlight. It contained a treasure trove of interesting objects, including the family’s former litter.
The music room was a testament to the grand parties once hosted within the palazzo’s walls. We imagined noble guests waltzing across the spacious floor under the glow of a magnificent chandelier made by artisans from San Severino Marche. Although a part of the chandelier was missing, a casualty of a World War II feast, its grandeur remained undeniable.
A Papal Heritage
The bedroom of Pius VIII was a sobering reminder of the man’s humble beginnings. A simple bed adorned with a picture of Mary pleading to heaven showcased the Pope’s deep faith. His papal clothing was also on display, a testament to his significant role in history.
The library, still used by the Marquis, provided a glimpse into the family’s intellectual pursuits. We even discovered a Belgian pocket calculator dating back to 1933 on the desk, adding a touch of modernity to this timeless room.
Preserving the Past
One of the most striking aspects of the Palazzo Castiglioni is the family’s commitment to preserving their history. From antique furniture to modern photographs, each room felt alive with the presence of the Castiglioni family.
The family archive housed a collection of documents spanning generations, including a poignant list of priests condemned to life imprisonment. This list highlighted Pius VIII’s strong stance against nepotism and his commitment to justice.
A Legacy of Faith and Politics
Pope Pius VIII, born Francesco Saverio Maria Felice Castiglioni, was a man of faith and conviction. He studied theology in Osimo and Bologna, and his unwavering belief in God led him to refuse to swear allegiance to the French emperor during the Napoleonic occupation. This act of courage earned him the admiration of Pope Pius VII, who later appointed him cardinal.
As Pope, Pius VIII made significant decisions that influenced the political landscape of his time. He granted Roman Jews permission to leave their ghetto at night, an act of progressive thinking for the time. In gratitude, the Jewish community presented him with a beautiful coffee set, which remains a cherished family heirloom.
Although his pontificate lasted only 1.5 years, Pius VIII left a lasting mark on the world. He died of asthma in 1830, but his legacy of faith, integrity, and compassion continues to inspire generations.
The Palazzo Castiglioni: A Time Capsule of Elegance
The Palazzo Castiglioni is a treasure trove of history, art, and family legacy. It’s a testament to the enduring power of human connections, faith, and the desire to preserve the past for future generations. We encourage you to visit this magnificent palazzo and experience its captivating stories firsthand.
Don’t miss the opportunity to contact Simone Sgalla (phone 0039 3285832320) for a guided tour of this historic gem! For a mere €3 per person, you can explore the Palazzo Castiglioni and discover its hidden secrets. Although Simone primarily speaks Italian and a little French, the palazzo’s beauty and history transcend language.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Marchese Castiglioni for allowing us to explore this extraordinary palazzo and for preserving this precious piece of history for the world to enjoy.
