Castello di Duino

Castello di Duino, located near the town of Duino in Italy, is a distinctly romantic castle perched atop rugged cliffs that face out towards the sweeping Adriatic Sea. Offering stunning views, it has been the inspiration for some of the country's most famous legends and stories, from the poet Rainer Maria Rilke's "Duino Elegies" to the work of famous architect Carlo Scarpa, who designed the garden of the castle in the 1930s. The site originally belonged to the House of Este, and has undergone many renovations over the years, including reconstructions from the 13th and 14th centuries. 46m-high towers and frescoed ceilings are amongst the noteworthy features of the castle, as well as its luscious landscaped gardens and ancient terraces. Visitors can explore the grounds on regular guided tours, and don't miss the nearby Duino Sunken Bridge, a popular hiking spot located nearby.