Initial construction of Grumello Castle dates back to the 13th century. In 1319, Cardinal Guglielmo Longo acquired the property, and it was at that time that the castle was believed to have been fortified with defensive walls to protect the pre-existing watch tower. During the following two centuries, the estate suffered a time of great neglect and abandonment, interrupted only by the period when commander Bartolomeo Colleoni resided at the Castle, using it as a base to control the surrounding territory. Over the next few hundred years, the Tenuta was possessed by a number of very important names, including the Suardi family, the Marquises Del Carretto and members of the Gonzaga di Vescovado line. The 18th and 19th centuries established the Castle’s current appearance as a grand fortified mansion, while still preserving the medieval sections of the Tower and Stables. A small private Chapel was added and the façade was renovated.
Since 1953, the residence has been owned by the Reschigna Kettlitz family. The property also includes a wine-growing estate of circa 20 hectares which produces high quality wines. The owners have opened the Castle to the public, making it a popular meeting place to host exhibitions, concerts, artistic and literary presentations, wine tastings and private events. The guided tour includes a visit of both the exterior of the Castle (including the private chapel and medieval tower) and the interior rooms, and culminates is the discovery of the wine cellars and a complimentary tasting of the Valcalepio Bianco DOC and the Valcalepio Rosso DOC red and white wines. Onsite parking is freely available.
