User:MarcoF1992/Castello di Velona

Il Castello di Velona is an ancient fortress located in the Val d'Orcia, in Tuscany, Italy. This castle was built in the 12th century and has undergone various modifications and expansions over the centuries.

History
The Castello di Velona was built between the 11th and 12th centuries as a military fortress due to its strategic location dominating the Val d'Orcia. From the beginning, it became a Consortium of Arts and Crafts without a feudal lord but managed by various Masters who worked and lived inside it.

It underwent its first expansion in the 12th century, during a period of significant growth of the possessions of the Aldobrandeschi Counts in the Val d'Orcia. Its strategic position atop a hill allowed for the control of the surrounding territories, and the castle soon became an important center of power in the area

Over the centuries, Castello di Velona underwent numerous modifications and expansions. In the 15th century, the castle came under the control of the Medici family, who transformed it into a noble residence. In the 18th century, Castello di Velona was acquired by the Cervini family, who turned it into a luxurious aristocratic estate. It changed hands once again at the end of the 19th century when it was purchased by Count Martelli, who converted it into his private residence. You can still see a plaque on the central tower commemorating this period.

During the 20th century, Castello di Velona experienced a period of decline until it was purchased by the Piermartini family in 1997. They undertook a complete renovation and transformed it into an exclusive hotel.

Description
Castello di Velona is situated in a panoramic position atop a hill, offering expansive views of the Val d'Orcia and the surrounding hills. The castle is surrounded by a large park, home to numerous plant and animal species.

The interior of Castello di Velona has undergone multiple renovations in the 21st century, successfully transforming it from a ruin into a luxury resort. Additionally, a thermal spring was discovered within the vineyards, allowing the castle to become a thermal spa destination.

Myths
The barbarian king, named Totila, after invading Tuscany, halted at Castello di Velona. Here, the king would meet a princess, with whom he fell deeply in love.

However, the princess was already promised to another man. Totila, desperate due to the princess's rejection, decided to besiege the castle, hoping to compel her love.

The princess, unwilling to give up her love for her promised spouse, decided to seek help from the Sun God, Apollo. Apollo appeared to her in a dream, revealing that the solution to her problem lay in the thermal waters flowing near the castle.

The princess then immersed herself in the thermal waters and gained the power to transform into a pure and crystalline spring. When the Ostrogoth king discovered the spring, he decided to drink from it but was struck by divine lightning, which killed him instantly.

It is said that the princess later lost her powers, but the thermal water is still considered a source of healing and well-being for those who use it today. This legend has contributed to creating an aura of mystery and fascination around Castello di Velona, making it even more captivating for visitors.