Carimate Castle: Between History, Music, and Relaxation

Imagine a medieval castle that once hosted emperors and singer-songwriters, now transformed into a luxury hotel with a spa and golf course. The Castello di Carimate, in Carimate near Como, is just that: a square Gothic-style block with a brick tower, battlements, and an ancient drawbridge. Strolling through the courtyard, you can almost hear the echoes of Bianca Maria Sforza’s wedding to Emperor Maximilian I, or the notes of Lucio Dalla and Fabrizio De André, who recorded unforgettable albums here. Today, within its walls, history blends with modern comforts: frescoed rooms, a rejuvenating spa, and a centuries-old park. A place where the past lives alongside the present, offering a unique experience.

The earliest traces date back to 1149, but the current castle was built in 1345 by Luchino Visconti on a previous fortification that had been destroyed. It passed to the Visconti, then to the Sforza. In 1493 it hosted the wedding procession of Bianca Maria Sforza and Maximilian I of Habsburg. In 1866 Vittorio Emanuele II and Garibaldi observed military maneuvers from the tower. After the Neo-Gothic restoration in 1874 by architect Balossi Merlo, it became a summer residence. From 1976 to 1987 it housed the Stone Castle Studios, where artists such as Lucio Dalla, Fabrizio De André, and Yes recorded. Since 1986 it has been a hotel. Here is a timeline:

• 1149: first mention
• 1345: Visconti reconstruction
• 1493: imperial wedding
• 1874: Neo-Gothic restoration
• 1976-1987: Stone Castle Studios
• 1986: hotel opening

Between 1976 and 1987, the castle became a temple of music: the Stone Castle Studios saw masterpieces like Lucio Dalla’s ‘Com’è profondo il mare’, Fabrizio De André’s ‘Crêuza de mä’, Edoardo Bennato’s ‘Sono solo canzonette’, and Yes’s ‘Big Generator’ come to life. The halls of the manor, with their unique acoustics, also hosted Pino Daniele, Antonello Venditti, and the Pooh. Today, walking through the corridors, you can still breathe that creative atmosphere. For music lovers, it is an almost mythical place: knowing that those walls held the voices of immense artists makes the visit even more special.

Today the castle is a 4-star hotel offering a blend of historic charm and wellness. The rooms are set in the ancient halls, with frescoed ceilings and period furnishings, yet all modern comforts. The spa features a Turkish bath, sauna, massages, and a gym. Outside, the centuries-old park surrounds the Carimate Golf Club (adjacent) and a panoramic pool. The l’Angelo a Teatro restaurant serves dishes in a suggestive setting. Amenities include a tennis court, riding stables, and boat trips. A perfect mix of relaxation and history, ideal for a luxury getaway.

1. History and Music: the only Italian castle to have hosted world-famous recording studios, with iconic albums recorded within its walls. 2. Relax and Luxury: spa, golf, and swimming pool in a medieval setting, perfect for a rejuvenating break. 3. Authentic Experience: sleep in a room that once belonged to Caterina Visconti or Ludovico il Moro, with all modern comforts. A journey through time without sacrificing well-being.

To fully enjoy the park and golf course, spring and autumn are perfect: mild climate and splendid colors. In summer, the pool is a plus, but the castle is also charming in winter, with the cozy atmosphere of the spa. If you love music, visit during an event or concert at the Torchio. My advice? Choose an autumn afternoon, when the low sun illuminates the battlements and the park turns red.

Just a short walk away, the Torchio (former stables) is a cultural center with exhibitions and concerts. Don’t miss Giardango, a 15,000 m² garden with a greenhouse, educational farm, and walk-in aviary – perfect for families. If you love hiking, the woods of Carimate offer trails among oaks and chestnuts, with a bike path connecting Montesolaro to Novedrate. A mix of culture, nature, and relaxation at your fingertips.