Montesegale between the Castello, hill paths and Pansegale

Montesegale in the Valle Ardivestra

Montesegale is located in the Valle Ardivestra, which is crossed by the stream of the same name and characterised by a hilly landscape. This combination of the valley and the hills gives the town a clearly defined natural setting for individual discoveries. The townscape includes the Castello di Montesegale, with a crenellated wall, a Rocca, a tower and a surrounding moat. Important for your planning: the Castello is privately owned and is not freely accessible.

The history of the town is also reflected in several specific architectural and cultural features. The Museo di Arte Contemporanea was established in 1975 in three rooms in the Castello di Montesegale. The parish church of Montesegale is dedicated to Saints Cosmas and Damian and was built in 1700. The parish church of Saints Cosmas and Damian has been associated with the Pieve di San Zaccaria near Godiasco since the 16th century.

Fiera di San Damiano and local specialities

A notable date in the annual calendar is the Fiera di San Damiano. It takes place every year on the last Sunday in September and includes a historical re-enactment in the Castello di Montesegale. The event also includes tastings of Salame di Varzi D.O.P. and De.Co. products.

Pansegale is one of the local culinary specialities. This product is made using walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts and dried figs; Pansegale is also made with sourdough. Pansegale is designated as a De.Co. product.

Paths and activities

The 035s circular route – Anello Fornace Sud offers scenic landscapes and provides an opportunity to visit the Borgo di Montesegale with the Castello dei Gambarana. Another route connection leads via path 172b, which connects Sanguignano with Sentiero 172.

Archery is also connected with the surrounding area. Since 2005, the archery field in Fornace has had a course with three-dimensional animal targets for field archery, also known as “hunter” and “field”. The target archery field of the Arcieri Ardivestra has hosted the interregional Trofeo Ardivestra event since 2002. The A.S.D. Arcieri Ardivestra in Montesegale has organised sporting events and courses for all age groups.

Getting there and choosing where to stay

From Godiasco, the access road follows the Strada Provinciale No. 184; six kilometres later, the municipal area of Montesegale begins. When choosing a hotel or other accommodation in Montesegale, you can base your priorities on the documented features of the town: the hilly landscape, the paths, the churches and castles, the Fiera di San Damiano or the regional products.

Discover other destinations

You can find additional travel destinations at Zerbolò, San Giorgio di Lomellina, Cervesina, Fortunago, Sala, Breme, Montebello Della Battaglia and Torre Beretti.

For the broader travel overview: Pavia.