The Vignola Fortress has also become a symbol—in this case, of Italy’s cherry capital. Its towers, drawbridge, and moat provide one of the most fascinating examples of defensive architecture in the entire Emilia-Romagna Region. The Vignola Fortress was built in the eighth century by the abbot of Nonantola to defend the abbey’s lands. After passing through the hands of several noble families, in 1401 it was ceded by the Este family of Ferrara to Uguccione Contrari who transformed it into a sumptuous noble home and filled the residence with frescoes and precious objets d’art. Vignola’s picturesque city center provides the perfect setting for the imposing and well-preserved Vignola Fortress. The four-sided structure contains five floors and has three square towers. The internal courtyard is magnificent and, on the left side, the “Rocchetta” (the “little fortress”) and the Contrari and Grassoni halls are located. One of the most beautiful structures is the frescoed chapel, a rare gem of “International Gothic” style. A visit to the Vignola Fortress is especially striking because of its perfect evocation of the past. Visitors can see the soldiers’ quarters as well as the trenches once used by watchmen charged with providing early warning of any danger to the castle. All in all, the experience of the fortress is unique.
