# Castello di Montegiove

- **Country:** Italy
- **Coordinates:** 42.918000, 12.144000
- **Location Text:** Orvieto

Castello di Montegiove is a historic fortress located in the Umbria region of Italy, situated at an elevation of 627 meters on the border between the ancient city-states of Orvieto and Perugia. Established during the 13th century by the Bulgarelli, Counts of Marsciano, the castle was constructed upon the ruins of an old temple dedicated to Jupiter Elicius, a fact that directly influenced its name, Montegiove. While the exact founding year remains uncertain, historical documents confirm the site's existence by 1282, when a request to build an oratory on the estate was granted. This oratory eventually became known as La Scarzuola. Over the centuries, ownership of the structure shifted amidst various regional battles and feuds until 1780, when it passed to the Misciattelli family, who have retained possession ever since.

The castle holds significant historical value as the birthplace of Blessed Angelina Marsciano, a notable figure of the Third Order of Saint Francis who lived from 1377 to 1435. Today, the estate operates as a private, family-run farm encompassing nearly 1,200 hectares of land. The property features extensive olive groves, woods, pastures, and vineyards, supporting a diverse agricultural output. It is renowned for producing Orvietano Rosso and Umbria Rosso wines, extra-virgin olive oil, and truffles, while also raising free-range Chianina cattle, the distinctive white cows typical of the area. The site includes a specific truffle reserve where two species, scorzone and uncinato, are cultivated.

Currently, Castello di Montegiove remains private property but serves as a tourist destination focused on its agricultural heritage. Visitors can access the grounds by reservation for guided tours of the historic wine cellars and wine tastings. The preservation of the castle by the same family for over two centuries ensures that its medieval origins and architectural character are maintained alongside its modern function as a productive farm. This unique combination of deep historical roots, religious significance, and ongoing agricultural tradition makes it a distinctive landmark in the Italian countryside.

![Photo of Castello di Montegiove](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7c/Castle_of_Montegiove.jpg)

**Source:** https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_of_Montegiove (Wikipedia, CC BY-SA)