Catajo Castle: Guide to the Palace of the Euganean Hills

Catajo Castle: Complete Guide to the Palace of the Euganean Hills

Just a few minutes from Casa Luna, a structure stands out that takes the breath away of anyone traveling along the state road skirting the Euganean Hills. Catajo Castle is not just a monument; it is an assertion of power, a theatrical set carved into trachytic rock, and one of the most imposing palaces in Europe. If you are staying in Montegrotto Terme, a visit to this "Palace" is a sensory experience that traverses centuries of Venetian history, family intrigue, and ghost legends.

1. A Legendary Origin: Between Etymology and Ambition

The name itself, Catajo, evokes exotic atmospheres. Many think it refers to Marco Polo’s "Catai," but the reality is more tied to the territory: it likely derives from "Ca' del Tajo" (the house of the cut), referring to the excavation of the artificial canal flowing right in front of it. It was built in the mid-16th century (between 1570 and 1573) by Pio Enea I Obizzi. The Obizzi family, mercenaries of Burgundian origin, wanted a residence that celebrated their military glory. They did not choose a famous architect; it was Pio Enea himself who designed this bizarre fusion of a medieval castle, a Venetian villa, and a military camp.

2. The Courtyard of the Giants and Naval Battles

As soon as you cross the entrance, your gaze is lost in the Courtyard of the Giants. This space was not just a representative courtyard, but a true open-air theater.

• Fun Fact: Thanks to an ingenious hydraulic system that drew water from the canal behind it, the courtyard was flooded to host naumachiae (simulated naval battles). Guests of the Obizzi family could witness real boarding maneuvers between small boats, sitting comfortably on the villa's steps.

3. The Piano Nobile: A Renaissance Comic Strip Climbing the stairs (designed to be traversed even on horseback!), you reach the Piano Nobile. Here, the wonder increases. Pio Enea commissioned Giambattista Zelotti, a pupil of Veronese, to decorate the walls.

• History in Real-Time: Unlike villas where Greek myths were painted, here the frescoes tell the story of the Obizzi family. It is a sort of huge "comic strip" from the 1500s: you will see scenes of battles, crusades, illustrious marriages, and political intrigues, all aimed at celebrating the owner's lineage.

• The Ballroom: Surmounted by gilded ceilings, it is one of the most spectacular halls in the region, where the light of the Hills pours in through the large windows.

4. The Park of Delights and Monumental Trees

Outside, the castle is surrounded by a historical park of about 40 hectares. For nature lovers staying at Casa Luna, this is a place of absolute peace:

• You can admire the centuries-old Sequoias and the Magnolias Grandiflora that arrived here in the eighteenth century.

• The Garden of Delight houses the Elephant Fountain, a bizarre work that combines Baroque aesthetics with a love for exoticism.

5. The Ghost of Barbara Querini: Legend or Reality?

No self-respecting castle is without a mystery. Legend has it that in 1654, the beautiful Barbara Querini, a noblewoman who married Tommaso Obizzi, the last descendant of the dynasty, was murdered within these walls out of jealousy. It is said that her specter still wanders through the halls and that the famous "bloody stone" is visible—a marble slab that, if wet, reveals reddish stains that can never be erased.

6. Information for Casa Luna Guests How, Where, and When

Catajo is located about 3.5 km from our property.

• By Bicycle (Recommended): This is one of the most pleasant options to enjoy the panorama of the Euganean Hills. Route: The cycle-pedestrian path (Euganean Hills Ring E2) passes near Casa Luna.

• The "Slow" Route: We suggest taking the regional train (just one stop, 3 minutes) towards Battaglia Terme. Once you get off, follow the path along the canal. It is a romantic and silent walk that will immerse you in the atmosphere of the place even before crossing the gate.

• By Car: If you are traveling with your own vehicle, you can use the free parking inside the Casa Luna property for departure and arrival operations. A free parking lot outside the Castle will ensure you have no problems.

• Ideal for Families: The large outdoor spaces allow children to explore safely, and the story of giants and pirates always fascinates them greatly.

Website: https://castellodelcatajo.it/ Via Catajo, 1 – 35041 Battaglia Terme (PD) Info, hours, visits: +39 349 9347190 Administration: +39 049 9100411 Email: info@castellodelcatajo.it

Conclusion

Visiting Catajo Castle means immersing yourself in a Veneto that is not just Venice. It is a place of strength, art, and nature. At the end of your visit, we will be happy to welcome you back to Casa Luna to discuss the wonders seen, perhaps over a glass of wine from the Euganean Hills. Tip from Casa Luna: If you visit the Castle in the late afternoon, stop on the panoramic terrace. When the sun goes down behind the Euganean Hills, the trachytic walls of the castle light up with a warm glow that you will not easily forget.

Read our Pillar article: The Charm of Euganean History and Culture: Venetian Villas and Villages

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