The Castle

The Origins and Construction of Castello di Muggia (14th Century)
The history of the Castello di Muggia began in the late 14th century following an anti-patriarchal rebellion led by the pro-Venetian noble Raffaele di Ser Steno. After quelling the revolt with a Friulian army in November 1374, the Patriarch of Aquileia, Marquardo di Randeck, ordered the construction of a fortress atop Montalbano hill. Built between late 1374 and 1399 under the supervision of Federico di Savorgnan, the stronghold incorporated an earlier watchtower (Turris Aquilegiensis Ecclesiae) and stone materials from the city’s dismantled medieval walls. Rather than a symbol of municipal freedom, the castle was constructed primarily to exert control over the rebellious local populace and defend the territory under patriarchal feudal authority.

Under Venetian Rule and Architectural Evolution
With Muggia’s act of dedication to Venice in July 1420, patriarchal control collapsed, and administration of the fortress passed to the Venetian Republic. Venice assigned a appointed officer, the Castellano, alongside a small garrison to maintain the stronghold’s strategic position guarding Istria. Throughout the centuries, the castle saw minimal military action—most notably enduring cannon fire during a 1511 conflict—and its physical layout evolved over time. Historical records and drawings show that the original fortress likely featured two square towers connected by a curtain wall, though over-deferred maintenance reduced it largely to its perimeter walls by the early 19th century.

20th-Century Transformation and Private Ownership
By 1818, the state-owned property had fallen into ruin before passing into private hands. In 1903, the pharmacist Giacomo Derossi purchased the estate and undertook initial renovations, including the construction of the prominent central tower in 1904–1905. Following periods of division among heirs, usage as a German military post during World War II (1943–1945), and housing displaced families, the castle was purchased in 1991 by the sculptor Villi Bossi and his wife. Bossi extensively restored the structure, even acquiring and installing the original wooden doors from the Basilica of San Giusto in 1993 after they were replaced, successfully transforming the historic ruin into a functional home and studio.

A New Chapter: Public Access and Cultural Heritage
The Bossi family maintained the residence until late 2025, when the property was sold to Culture Arti e Saperi srl, a local company sponsored by the AlessioGe Foundation. Following official approval from the historic preservation authority, full ownership transitioned in March 2026. Moving away from its recent history as a private residence, this new chapter aims to preserve the castle's rich heritage, open its gates to the public, and establish the historic site as a cultural destination for visitors.