Castello di Cosseria (Castrum Crucis Ferrae)

The castle ruins crown the Montecala pass above the village and offer one of the best vantage points in the upper Bormida valley. The keep, sections of curtain wall, and the original entrance gate survive in fragments, set among grass and brushwood.

A short signed path leads up from the modern village. There is no fee, no opening hours, and almost no one else — the castle is simply there to be wandered. Combine with a walk along the ridge for the views.

things to do sight
A story
On 13 April 1796, the young General Bonaparte stormed the castle of Cosseria in the second battle of his Italian campaign. The Piedmontese defended for two days from inside the ruins before surrendering; the action helped secure Bonaparte's first major victory at Montenotte.