Mentioned by Paul the Deacon in his Historia Langobardorum, and considered impregnable, the castle was probably erected by the Lombards in 611 B.C. to defend themselves from the Avars. After walking up the 150 steps of the Salita dei Longobardi, one has an unparalleled view of the valley, which has not changed significantly for over a thousand years. In addition to visiting the castle complex, a stroll through the lush public gardens, which stand on the highest part of the hill, is a must.
 
TRIVIA- the Castle’s presence is so deeply rooted in the town’s life that it can be found in many stories passed down among the people of Gemona, sometimes as the protagonist, sometimes as a silent observer.