The Castle of Malgrate, located in the municipality of Villafranca, is an ancient fortress that overlooks the valley of the Bagnone River, distinguished by its characteristic round tower. Its origins date back to the 14th century, when it played a strategic role in controlling the roads leading from the Apennines, the Cisa Pass, and Garfagnana.
The castle, with its 25-meter-high tower crowned by a round overhang with corbels, remained under the control of the Malaspina family until the 17th century. Originally built as a defensive stronghold, the castle was partially transformed in 1641 when the central structure was converted into a palace, incorporating the round tower into its new design.
Despite its evolution into a stately residence, Malgrate still retains the defining features of a medieval fortress. The main structure includes the keep, located on the short side of the rectangular feudal palace, and is surrounded by walls with Guelph battlements, escarpments, and a walkway dating back to the 14th century.
