Ghostly Getaways: Italy's Most Haunted Buildings for Thrill-Seeking Campers

As you wander through Italy's ancient streets and marvel at its breathtaking architecture, there's a good chance you're passing sites steeped in ghostly tales and haunting legends. These sinister spots will send chills down your spine, from hilltop castles to secluded mansions hidden in forests.

And after exploring Italy's haunted houses, why not relax at one of the many welcoming campsites just a stone's throw away? Gather with friends around the fire, share tales of ghostly encounters, and keep your eyes and ears open. You never know; you might spot a shadowy figure or hear spine-tingling whispers in the night!

Castello di Roccascalegna, Roccascalegna, Abruzzo

Ghostly Tales:The Crow Baron

Castello di Roccascalegna is a stunning fortress perched on a basalt cliff that looks like it's leapt straight out of a fairy tale. This remarkable castle dates back to the 10th century and is steeped in local lore – particularly the chilling tale of the Crow Baron.

In the 17th century, the Crow Baron was notorious for enforcing the right of "jus primae noctis", a practice requiring all newlywed brides in his territory to spend their wedding night with him. His tyrannical rule ended tragically when the Baron was allegedly stabbed to death. Whether by a spurned bride or her husband in disguise varies by account. Legend has it he left a bloodstain on the walls that won't disappear, and many believe his restless spirit still roams the castle.

Visitors can explore this captivating medieval castle and enjoy breathtaking views of the Abruzzo landscape for just €4. If you're feeling adventurous, check out the special Halloween events featuring after-dark tours, fortune tellers, and even fireworks. Perfect for an evening of spine-tingling thrills!

Kokopelli Camping
Italy, Abruzzo, Pescara

This small campsite is for tents only or small camper vans by prior arrangement (a number of rooms, tents and a retired VW Camper also available). This is wild camping, with no marked pitches or electricity connections, 2 km. from the little village of Serramonacesca, which has bars, shops, a butcher, a chemist and restaurants. The Majella National Park, with wolves, bears and birds of prey, is one of the most exciting areas of untamed wilderness within the Apennines. Rock climbing, spread across the entire region, is spectacular. The Adriatic coastline, with 133 km. of beaches, cliffs and creeks running along a sparkling coast, is lined with pinewoods, dotted with towns and backed by green hills.

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Castello di Odescalchi, Bracciano, Lazio

Ghostly Tales: A Tale of Betrayal

Perched on the picturesque shores of Lake Bracciano, Castello di Odescalchi is celebrated as one of Europe's most stunning feudal castles. Constructed in the 15th century, today's visitors can enjoy private tours, tastings and events. It was also the wedding venue for Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes.

However, the castle's beauty masks a chilling story. Built for the powerful Orsini family, it was the backdrop for the troubled marriage of Paolo Giordano I Orsini and Isabella de' Medici. Engaged at just 11 and married at 16, Isabella soon found herself in a tumultuous relationship with a husband known for his ruthlessness and violent tendencies.

But Isabella had secrets of her own. Rumour has it that Isabella's chamber featured a secret door, letting her discreetly invite lovers into her room. Those who displeased her were said to meet a grisly end through a hidden trapdoor that led to a spiked well.

Paolo, ever watchful, learned of Isabella's affairs. To exact revenge, he strangled her during dinner (while leaning in for a kiss). Today, whispers persist that Isabella's spirit still wanders the castle, a haunting reminder of its gory past.

Camping Porticciolo
Italy, Lazio, Bracciano

This is a small, family run site. Useful for visiting Rome, it has its own private beach on the lake and is overlooked by the impressive Bracciano Castle. The 170 pitches, some with lake views, 120 with electricity (4-6A), are level, peaceful and shaded by very green trees. The bar/restaurant with takeaway and wood-fired pizzeria has two large terraces. Alessandro and his wife, Alessandra, have worked hard to build up this basic site since 1982. They are charming and speak excellent English.

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Castello di Malaspina, Fosdinovo, Tuscany

Ghostly Tales: Bianca Maria Aloisa

Tucked away in the breathtaking Tuscan landscape (near the border with Ligúria), Castello di Malaspina is a fortress steeped in mystery. This 13th-century castle overlooks the charming village of Fosdinovo, offering stunning views of the Apuan Alps and the sea.

One of the most captivating tales centres around Bianca Maria Aloisa, the albino daughter of Giacomo Malaspina. As punishment for defying her father's wishes for marriage, she was tragically walled up alive alongside her faithful dog and a wild boar – a symbol of her rebellion. Her remains (alongside the animals) were supposedly discovered during restorations, adding to the castle's haunted lore.

Visitors report seeing a long-haired girl drifting through the castle walls, especially in Bianca's chamber. There are even reports that if you place pomegranates on the four corners of her bed, you can hear a faint heartbeat or feel her chilling breath.

Camping Gianna
Italy, Ligúria, Lerici

Camping Gianna is situated to the east of La Spezia and 400 m. from the pretty village of Tellaro which is typical of this part of the Italian coast. The site, set peacefully on a hillside among olive trees has 50 terraced touring pitches (20-50 sq.m), 37 for tents and 13 for small tourers. They are shaded and have electricity (6A Europlug); in addition there are 90 annually rented pitches. It is steeply terraced with beautiful views overlooking the Mediterranean. There is no shop on site but nearby Tellaro has several restaurants and a shop for essentials. There is a restaurant and a bar next to the pool and a sandy beach nearby (fairly steep access).

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Castello di Sammezzano, Reggello, Tuscany

Ghostly Tales:The Spirit of Ferdinando

With its breathtaking Moorish Revival architecture and vibrant decorations, Castello di Sammezzano is a true visual masterpiece. Built in the mid-19th century by the nobleman Ferdinando Panciatichi Ximenes d'Aragona, this castle wasn't just a grand estate. It was his personal sanctuary and retreat.

Though initially a supporter of the Nationalist cause, even helping to fund the unification of Italy, Ferdinando grew deeply disillusioned with Italian politics. His frustrations are immortalised in the very walls of the castle, with cryptic inscriptions scattered throughout the ornate rooms.

As you step into the eerie Atrium of Columns, the gothic admonition "NON PLUS ULTRA" (meaning "no more beyond") warns visitors. According to lore, this phrase appeared on the Pillars of Hercules at the Strait of Gibraltar, warning sailors not to stray into the unknown.

After his death in 1897, Ferdinando was buried in a tomb inside his beloved castle. Although his body was later moved in 1916, local legend says his spirit never left.

The castle is currently closed to the public, but the Ferdinando Panciatichi Ximenes d'Aragona committee hosts events, walks and rare openings.

Camping Village Il Poggetto
Italy, Tuscany, Troghi-Firenze

This superb site has a lot to offer. It benefits from a wonderful panorama of the Colli Fiorentini hills with acres of the Zecchi family vineyards to the east adding to its appeal and is just 15 km. from Florence. The charming and hard working owners, Marcello and Daniella, have a wine producing background and you can purchase their fine wines at the site’s shop. Their aim is to provide an enjoyable and peaceful atmosphere for families. All 106 touring pitches are of a good size, kept neat and tidy and have 6A electricity. On arrival you are given a joining pack and escorted to view available pitches then assisted in taking up your chosen pitch.

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Palazzo Budini-Gattai, Florence

Ghostly Tales: The Always Open Window

Just a stone's throw from the heart of Florence, you'll find the ancient Palazzo Budini-Gattai, once known as Palazzo Grifoni. Now an events venue, one of its most intriguing features is the far-right window on the second floor, which has a curious habit of remaining perpetually open.

The tale goes back centuries when one of the Grifoni sons was called away to war. He left his young bride with a heartfelt promise to return soon. As the years rolled by, she remained by the window, faithfully waiting for his return. Tragically, he never came back.

When she finally passed away, the window was closed for the first time in decades. But this unleashed a cascade of strange events: furniture rattled, books flew from the shelves, and paintings fell from their hooks. It was only after the shutters were reopened that peace returned. Ever since, the window has stayed ajar, a poignant symbol of her undying hope and love…

Camping Village Panoramico Fiesole
Italy, Tuscany, Fiesole

Camping Village Panoramico Fiesole is a mature but pleasant site in a superb hilltop situation offering wonderful views over Florence. The 120 pitches, all with 5A electricity, are on terraces and steep walks to and from the various facilities could cause problems for guests with mobility problems. There is shade in many parts of the site.

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Castello di Bardi, Bardi, Emilia-Romagna

Ghostly Tales:The Lady in White

Perched atop a rocky outcrop, Castello di Bardi stands like a sentinel over Emilia-Romagna. This fortress, one of the largest in Italy and dating to the 9th century, is steeped in legend.

One of the most famous tales is The Lady in White, a spirit who haunts the castle after meeting a tragic end at the hands of her jealous husband. It's said she was locked in a tower, and after starving to death, her spirit returned, forever wandering the castle in search of freedom. 

Visitors report glimpses of her ghostly figure drifting through the castle, dressed in a flowing gown that billows like a cloud of mist. On certain moonlit nights, the haunting echoes of her sobs reverberate through the ancient stone walls.

Castello di Bardi is open to visitors on weekends. If ghost-hunting doesn't leave you too exhausted, there are plenty of grand halls, courtyards, chapels, gardens – and even prisons and museums to explore.

Camping Arizona
Italy, Emília-Romagna, Salsomaggiore Terme

Camping Arizona is a green site with a zero carbon rating, set on steep slopes 500 m from the pretty town of Tabiano, with its thermal springs dating back to the Roman era. The focus on water is continued within this pleasant, family-run site by a complex of four large pools, water slides, a jacuzzi, and a play area, all set on open landscaped grounds with superb views (open to the public).

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Palazzo Dario, Venice, Veneto

Ghostly Tales:The Cursed House

Palazzo Dario, or Ca' Dario, is ominously nicknamed "the house that kills". Indeed, this stunning 15th-century Venetian Gothic palace hides a tragic past filled with mysterious deaths and misfortune.

Over the years, many of its owners and guests have met with untimely ends, financial ruin or scandal – giving rise to chilling tales of a curse that lingers within its walls. Legend has it the building was constructed over an ancient Templar cemetery, which might explain its dark energy.

The curse began with the family of Giovanni Dario, the original owner. His daughter Marietta tragically took her own life, while her husband Vincenzo was murdered, and their son was later assassinated. From there, the curse tightened its grip. British scientist Radon Brown and American millionaire Charles Briggs both faced scandals and suicides after living there - even rock star John Entwistle of The Who passed away just days after staying at the palazzo.

Palazzo Dario is located on the Grand Canal in Venice, making it easily visible from the water. So if you're taking a scenic gondola or vaporetto ride, watch out for this infamous "cursed house" as you pass by.

Camping Fusina
Italy, Veneto, Fusina

This is traditional camping, but what fun. Choose from 350 well-shaded, flat, grassy informal pitches or an unrivalled position directly by the water with fantastic views over the lagoon to the towers in Saint Mark's Square. Huge ships pass within 50 metres of the largely unfenced water's edge, to the delight of children and adults alike, some caution must be taken in places. With water on three sides, there are welcoming cool breezes. The ferry to Venice is just outside the gate, so this is an ideal site for visiting the city. As a short-stay site, there are few luxuries, but a busy bar and restaurant are at the heart of the site, along with a small shop. We enjoyed the informality here, where you are left alone to either travel to Venice or just relax watching the sunset over the lagoon from your pitch.

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Castello di Fenis, Fenis, Aosta Valley

Ghostly Tales:The Haunted Knight

Nestled in the picturesque Aosta Valley, Castello di Fenis looks like it popped out of an adventure story. Known for its stunning architecture, many towers and embattled history, this medieval castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region. Built by Aymon of Challant and his son Boniface I of Challant between 1320 and 1420, it certainly has history.

But it's also got a sinister side. A resident ghost – a nobleman betrayed and murdered within its walls. Local legend tells that a rival treacherously killed him during a violent feud. Now his spirit roams the castle grounds, eternally guarding his former home. Visitors often hear whispers of long-forgotten conversations and strange noises from floors closed to the public.

Entry is via guided tours, which take place between 10am and 7pm (5pm in the winter). Just make sure to escape before twilight descends!

Camping Lo Stambecco
Italy, Valle d’Aosta, Cogne

Lo Stambecco (the Alpine ibex) is tucked away deep in the Gran Paradiso National Park. After an enthralling scenic mountain drive, you will reach this small site with breathtaking views of the mountains and glaciers. The grass pitches are informally arranged on slopes and terraces (levelling aids are useful) and all have great views. Electricity is available (3A Europlug; long leads useful). Clean crisp air, beautiful views, the rushing clear mountain stream and the delightfully informal atmosphere make this a destination site. You decide whether to hike, bike, raft or simply relax and let it all soak in.

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In summary

Italy's haunted houses and castles offer an extraordinary glimpse into this country's history and legends. Whether you're a serious ghost hunter or just looking for a good scare, these sites provide both thrills and chills.

With over 500 Alan Rogers-approved campsites across Italy, immerse yourself in the eerie atmosphere as you settle in for a cosy night of ghost stories and starry skies. Happy haunting!

Peter Stannett

Content Writer

Peter is a key part of our creative team; he's a multifaceted individual with a deep love for cooking, travel, and music.

While he does a stellar job of keeping our content fresh, focusing on SEO and monitoring website traffic, his heart truly belongs to the world of culinary delights, exploration, and his guitar.

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