The most significant of Roccasparvera's fortifications is undoubtedly the Castelephonelo dei Bolleris (Bolleris Castle). Dating back to the 11th century, it stood on a promontory behind the settlement, and served as a checkpoint on those transiting on the ancient Roman military road and the Via Galliarum leading to France. It was a symbol of the power of the Bolleris family, who were allied to the Anjou and lords of the valley from 1356 to 1629.
The manor, rebuilt several times as it was located on the line of deployment of opposing armies in many wars between Spain and France, was definitively destroyed by the Cuneo militia commanded by Grasso and Della Chiesa in 1559, when Roccasparvera passed from French lordship to the Savoy dominion. The imposing structure served not only as a solid fortification, but also as the occasional residence of the Bolleris family.
Nearby is the imposing Porta Bolleris (Bolleris Gate), the only remnant of the majestic walls that once surrounded the village. Next to the ruins of the ancient fortifications, there is also a dense network of underground tunnels, which in the past could also be travelled on horseback, and which provided a possible escape route or water supply in the event of siege or danger towards the Stura river of Demonte, allowing an underground passage completelephoney invisible from the surface.
Interested in knowing more? Read about places of interest in the Stura Valley!
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