Delizia del Benvignate

The construction of the Delizia del Benvignante of Argenta was commissioned by Duke Borso D'Este in 1464 for holiday purposes. In particular, the Castle was a gift from the duke to his secretary Teofilo Calcagnini who made it available for the meetings of the Accademia dei Filareti. On the origin of the curious name there are conflicting opinions. Some think that it is associated precisely with its recreational destination and reinvigorating from fatigue. On the other hand, it is claimed that Benvignante is because the castle was surrounded by vineyards and land where the nobles loved to hunt. The visits of illustrious nobles were, in fact, quite frequent. It is said that Beatrice d'Este stayed at the Delizia in 1481. At one time, near the castle there were streams that facilitated access to the residence. The inhabitants of the territory are deeply attached to the Delizia so much so that they confidentially call it "Al Turòn". From this it can be deduced that, despite being a holiday resort, it also played a defensive role. In the nineteenth century, the Delizia was purchased by the Luigi Gulinelli count who made it more imposing by raising it and surrounding it with a four-hectare park. In addition, stables were added for racehorses also visited by Vittorio Emanuele II.