The Castle Brown in Portofino during the sunset
The Castle Brown is surrounded by a Mediterranean garden rich in flowers, rose gardens, and arbors. The landscape is consistently enchanting facing the gulf until the Baffe tip. The room on the first floor is covered by domes of Lombard type in the center of which there is a big triptych and, on the right side, a Majolica stove. During the afternoon a small sweater or top is usually advisable when in Portofino.
Built around the year 1000 in a strategic position in order to control the entrance to the inlet. In the following centuries, it was renovated and enlarged time after time. Mid-way through the renovation traces of an existing Roman tower dating between the II-III century AD were found. Since 1961 it has been owned by the Town of Portofino which often uses it for exhibitions.
The castle is surely worth visiting thanks to the wonderful landscape that can be enjoyed from there and which comprises the whole of Portofino and the bay. The entrance fee is 5 euros.
The walls of the building are home to numerous low-relief sculptures and architectural furniture in marble or slate. In the first room, there are some original pieces of furniture and architectural pieces in addition to a wall with Gothic windows. From there the terrace is accessible where once the artillery was held. The Consul Brown, from whom the castle got its name transformed this area into a wonderful garden. In order to reach the floor above one must walk a stair covered in “laggioni”.
The magnificent view from Castello Brown in Portofino
The use of Majolicas to cover the walls was widespread in the Liguria region, as a style from areas in the Mediterranean Sea and the Eastern regions. Inside the castle stairs there is a Majolica showing the Nativity scene, which is a copy of the “Adorazione dei Magi” assigned to the Gagini (XV Century), whereas the original may be found in Genova in Via Orefici 47r.
Inside the stairs bay, one may admire a wooden panel ceiling with pictures of saints, martyrs, and kings. The room on the first floor is covered by domes of Lombard type, on the center of which there is a big triptych and on the right side a Majolica stove.
The circular tower room has been thoroughly renovated. The building comprises another floor, closed to the public because it houses the Mursia Meteorology Centre. Requires about 10 minutes of walking to reach it. It is advised to bring liquids and suitable shoes. During the afternoon a small sweater or top is usually advisable when in Portofino. From the terrace, you can capture incredible photos overlooking the entire bay of Portofino. On the expansive terrace, there’s a small nook where one can lean out to declare their love.
Castle Brown Portofino
Via alla Penisola, 13 A
16034 – Portofino
Phone +39.0185.267.101
Portofino, a world apart.
