Location: Manno of Toano (RE) on the Apennines, Emilia Romagna
Type: portion of large historic sandstone court
Composition: the court is based around an ancient square tower (old manor house on two floors); large independent garden
Total area: 700 square meters of land
Conditions: the complex, long uninhabited, possesses a considerable volume on two levels and has several dilapidated portions. Partially ruined and in need of renovation, it lends itself optimally to a customized restoration and deserves to be valued in all its beauty.
Features: the wide enclosed structure reveals an obvious defensive nature . The complex is also suitable for accommodation facilities. The view of the beautiful scenery and its unique position make of this complex a great place to relax.
Distance to points of interest: 50 km from Reggio Emilia, 100 km from Bologna
Interesting facts: The wonderful complex of Ghirardini Family Court is one of the most significant prominencies not only in the Manno village but among all the stately types on theAppennino Reggiano.
Unique is the wide entrance portal with a round arch with key dated “1796” and bordered by medallions carved in sandstone depicting Saints Paul and Prosper, probably executed by the workshop of Ceccati. Access to the house is dominated by an archibugiera slot.
Inside the building the original wooden structure of the floors and flooring in oak planks are still visible. Three ancient stone fireplaces and some antique artifacts dating from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries stand out in the interiors.. Some rooms are decorated with paintings of nineteenth century.
Nearby are numerous possessions belonged to the Grand Countess Matilde di Canossa.
Useful links:
http://matildedicanossa.galmodenareggio.it/en/matilde_paths/audioguide_1/municipality_toano_matilda_parish_church_santa.aspx