Alessandro Michele Acquires and Restores Castello di Montalfina in Umbria
Alessandro Michele, the renowned fashion designer, has acquired the medieval Castello di Montalfina, located near Castel Giorgio in Umbria, intending to restore it. The castle's name derives from the Latin "mons ad fines" and began as a Lombard outpost during King Desiderio's reign, later falling under the control of the Monaldeschi family. In 1442, Antonio Coletta seized it for Francesco Sforza. Following an earthquake in the early 1500s, it transformed into a residential estate by the late 16th century. The 19th century saw the Ravizza family repurpose it as a civic venue. Before Michele's purchase, the Valentini family were the last proprietors. In an interview with Vogue Italia on November 28, 2023, Michele likened himself to "a doctor who heals damaged and dilapidated homes."
Key facts
- Alessandro Michele purchased Castello di Montalfina in Umbria.
- The castle is near Castel Giorgio, on the slopes of Monti Volsini, close to Lake Bolsena.
- Its name derives from Latin 'mons ad fines' meaning 'mountain at the border'.
- First structures date to the Lombard period under King Desiderio.
- Conquered in 1442 by Antonio Coletta (Il Ciarpellone) for Francesco Sforza.
- Damaged by an earthquake in the early 16th century.
- In the 19th century, the Ravizza family reorganized it in purist style.
- The Valentini family were the last owners before Michele.
- In 2002, Count Valentini showed artifacts including a rifle attributed to Anita Garibaldi.
- Michele stated in Vogue Italia (Nov 28, 2023): 'I am a doctor who heals damaged and dilapidated homes.'
Entities
Artists
- Alessandro Michele
Institutions
- Vogue Italia
- Artribune
- La Città
Locations
- Castel Giorgio
- Umbria
- Monti Volsini
- Lake Bolsena
- Altopiano dell'Alfina
- Montalfina
- Orvieto
- Lazio