Monte Belvedere

Mount Belvedere (1139 mamsl) rises a few kilometres against the village of Querciola. A breathtaking panorama over the landscape and the ruins of the ancient medieval castle can be admired from its summit. Castle Belvedere was erected in 1227 in a strategic position on Mount Cimbriano (hereinafter renamed Belvedere), as to hold back the expansion of Frederick II. Today, on the basis of the castle’s remains, the ancient plan of the building has been successfully reconstructed. 

During the Italian Middle Ages of the Signorie, the castle lost its importance and was gradually abandoned. However, Mount Belvedere had a significant revival as strategic point during the Second World War for being located along the Green Line, a retreat of the more famous Gothic Line. After being exploited by the Germans as a stronghold, the castle was reconquered by the American and Brazilian soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division, in cooperation with the Partisans. 

An ancient secret lingers on this site: a mysterious cross-shaped groove on which no grass ever grows is said to the be tangible and eldritch sign of an ancient legend involving the Devil in person and a girl named Oliva.