Edited by:
Massimo Martini
This volume, although dated, represents an important compendium for all Aosta Valley history enthusiasts and connoisseurs. The author, André Zanotto, who died in 1995, offers a complete census of castles, towers, fortified houses and stately homes built from the dawn of history to the 19th century. In the cards, one can see how many buildings have changed 'destination' over the years, becoming from a mere defensive tool to stately homes. The cards, albeit concise, provide important information on the structures (thanks to essential plans), construction techniques and the main architectural details. The cards are completed by some interesting introductory chapters that contextualise the buildings in the historical period, and an extensive bibliography allows the reader to target the research for further study. Thirty years after its publication, it remains an outstanding work that would be interesting to update in light of the recent recoveries of the main castles carried out by the regional administration.