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Historical places #2 in Aosta

Castello Reale di Sarre

4.5 · 4,209 reviews
A quiet and historically formal atmosphere.
Castello Reale di Sarre, Frazione Lalex, 88, 11010 Sarre AO, Italy
Interesting facts
1

The castle features a distinct hall dedicated to the 'Gallery of Trophies', showcasing an extensive collection of ibex and chamois horns collected by King Victor Emmanuel II.

2

The structure sits on the site of a 13th-century defensive fortress, though the current appearance is largely the result of 19th-century royal renovations.

3

It was specifically purchased by the Italian Royal House to serve as a private hunting lodge due to its proximity to Gran Paradiso.

4

The building was acquired by the Aosta Valley Autonomous Region in 1989 and underwent significant restoration before opening to the public.

5

Original royal furnishings and personal items belonging to the Italian monarchy remain in situ within the apartments.

Overview

Castello Reale di Sarre is a historic royal residence located in the Aosta Valley, famously serving as the summer retreat for the House of Savoy starting in 1869. King Victor Emmanuel II acquired the property to utilize it as a base for his hunting expeditions in the Gran Paradiso area. The interior exhibits the 'Gallery of Trophies,' a hall decorated with hundreds of ibex and chamois horns. The castle reflects a transition from its medieval origins to a 19th-century royal summer residence. Guided tours provide access to the Royal Apartments, which maintain original furnishings and royal portraits. It is situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the central Aosta Valley. The architecture features a central keep surrounded by later additions from various historical periods. The castle holds deep ties to the Italian monarchy's influence on regional alpine culture.

Photo spot

The main approach road provides the best angle for capturing the castle against the backdrop of the Aosta mountains.

Insider tips

Book your guided tour in advance as group sizes are capped for preservation purposes.

Visit the surrounding terraced gardens for a clearer view of the castle's exterior architecture.

Bring a light jacket as the stone interiors remain cool even during the summer months.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to walk from Aosta city center, as the climb to the castle is steep and requires transit.

Good to know

Closed on Mondays throughout the year.

Etiquette

Photography is restricted in certain interior rooms; maintain quiet decorum as it is a protected heritage site.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-1.5 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring or early autumn for clear views of the surrounding Aosta Valley and manageable temperatures.
Address
Castello Reale di Sarre, Frazione Lalex, 88, 11010 Sarre AO, Italy
45.713, 7.252
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsGallery of Trophies and Royal Apartments
Architectural styleMedieval foundations with 19th-century royal renovations

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-1.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring or early autumn for clear views of the surrounding Aosta Valley and manageable temperatures..

The main approach road provides the best angle for capturing the castle against the backdrop of the Aosta mountains.

Close by you'll find Castello di Aymavilles, Museo regionale di scienze naturali Efisio Noussan - Castello di Saint-Pierre, Castello Sarriod de La Tour.