The castle layout served as a stylistic model for the construction of the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence.
The Rilliana Library holds an extensive collection of ancient manuscripts, some dating back to the 10th century.
A series of frescoes in the chapel, attributed to the Giotto school, remain largely intact after centuries.
The central tower, or mastio, stands at a height of approximately 30 meters.
The castle is surrounded by an original moat that has since been adapted into a green space.
The Conti Guidi family held control over this region for over four centuries before yielding to Florence.
Castello dei Conti Guidi in Poppi serves as a prime example of 13th-century military architecture, credited to the architect Lapo di Cambio, who may have influenced the design of Florence's Palazzo Vecchio. The fortress houses the Rilliana Library, which contains approximately 25,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts and incunabula. Its courtyard features a collection of stone coats of arms belonging to the local vicars. Visitors can traverse the ramparts and climb the central tower for views of the Casentino Valley. The interior retains a 14th-century fresco cycle depicting the life of Christ and various saints by the school of Taddeo Gaddi. The structure has served as both a defensive stronghold for the Guidi family and an administrative center for the Florentine Republic.
From the internal courtyard looking up toward the loggias, or from the top of the tower looking over the rooftops of Poppi.
Climb the tower early to avoid the peak heat and gain the best light for landscape photography.
Ensure you have comfortable walking shoes, as the internal staircases to the tower are steep and uneven.
Check the local cultural calendar, as the castle often hosts temporary art exhibitions that occupy the main halls.
Do not attempt to climb the tower if you have mobility issues or a fear of heights, as the steps are narrow and traditional.
The castle may observe reduced hours or seasonal closures during the winter months.
