Vignola Fortress (Rocca di Vignola)

The Rocca of Vignola, built on the bank of the Panaro river, in a highly strategic border area for the defence of the Este territories, became a key base for the organisation of military operations that took place along the border between the territories of Bologna and Modena.

In 1401, the fortress and the territories of Vignola were granted as a fief by Nicolò III d’Este to Uguccione Contrari (1379? -1448). After the long period of conflict that had affected the south-western part of the domain, the Contrari profoundly changed the structures of the fortress, which was transformed from a still predominantly military facility into a stately home, updated to the most modern residential requirements and fit to accommodate a small court.

The architecture and the splendid frescoes that adorn the interiors are among the best preserved of the early 15th century in the Po Valley and represent not only the most eloquent symbol of the refined culture of the patron who commissioned them, but also one of the most significant examples of the cultural climate that characterised the court of Nicolò III d’Este.