Quattro Castella

Quattro Castella is a place where rolling hills and picturesque views invite you to discover the thousand-year history of Matilda of Canossa (Matilde di Canossa).

Quattro Castella is a municipality located in the foothills of the province of Reggio Emilia, about 18 km from the provincial capital.

It is one of the most picturesque spots in the Reggio Emilia hills: an area steeped in the history of Matilda of Canossa, dominated by four fortified hills offering spectacular views, medieval castles and nature trails that are ideal for a trip combining culture and nature.
Here, you can enjoy the atmosphere of Matilda of Canossa’s era, amidst fortresses, ancient parish churches and rolling landscapes ideal for slow tourism.

Quattro Castella is a charming destination all year, offering different experiences depending on the season.
In spring, the hilly landscape comes to life with colours and scents, making it the ideal time for hiking, walking and nature trails surrounded by nature.
Summer is enlivened by historical events, including the Matildic Historical Parade (Corteo Storico Matildico), festivals and open-air nights that make the town particularly lively and welcoming.
Autumn is ideal for discovering the authentic flavours of the region and taking part in local food and wine events.
Here, even winter has its charm: the castles and surrounding villages, enveloped in a quieter, more evocative atmosphere, invite you to take relaxing visits to discover the history and traditions of the area.

What to see

Bianello Castle
The only one of the four original castles to retain a well-preserved structure, the castle was once the residence of Matilda of Canossa and the site of significant historical events, such as the meeting between Henry IV and Henry V.
After passing from the Canossa family to the Este family and then to the Municipality of Quattro Castella, the castle is now open to visitors.
Bianello Nature Reserve
Located at an altitude of around 300 metres, it offers views of the rolling hills, oak woods and paths surrounded by greenery.
The Nature Reserve features a visitor centre, information materials and facilities for excursions and nature-based activities, including the release of birds of prey and nature observation.

Nearby

Main events

Sport and outdoor activities

Local history

Quattro Castella has its roots in a very ancient past, as evidenced by significant archaeological finds in the villages of Roncolo, Mangalano, Forche, Puianello and Ghiardello, which bear witness to human habitation from the Palaeolithic era right through to Roman times.

In the Middle Ages, the area took on a strategic role: between the 10th and 11th centuries, the four hills were fortified, creating a defensive system that was crucial for controlling the Po River Valley.
Bianello Castle became one of Matilda of Canossa’s principal residences; she strengthened its fortifications, transforming it into a venue for important political and religious ceremonies.
Events destined to shape European history took place here, such as the meeting between Pope Gregory VII and Henry IV in 1077 and the vicarious coronation of Matilda herself by Henry V in 1111.
After the death of the Grand Countess, the territory passed under the control of several lords until the arrival of the Este family in the 15th century.
With the abolition of the feudal system in 1796 and the establishment of the Kingdom of Italy in 1859, Quattro Castella definitively assumed its administrative identity, becoming an autonomous municipality.

Curiosities

Famous people

Identity and traditions

Contacts

42020 Quattro Castella

Tel. +39 0522 249211 - Town Hall

Quattro Castella Municipality