Pieve del Cairo PV

Beccaria Castle and the Po River Museum

The Castello Beccaria, one of the most majestic castles in the province of Pavia, stands out in the picturesque Lomellina countryside for its imposing structure. Over the centuries, it has undergone various transformations, from its origins in the 12th century to additions from the Visconti, Baroque, and Neoclassical periods. Located in the heart of the village, it features a quadrangular plan with corner towers and a large central courtyard. It was defended by an external moat, crossed by a bridge likely defended by a drawbridge. Two protective towers at the entrance, one with remains of a drawbridge and a pedestrian walkway, and the other with pointed arches, enhance its history. In the 17th and 18th centuries, crenellations were added to both towers. Today, privately owned, Castello Beccaria is a venue for weddings, events, and hospitality.

The Museum of the Po River is located in the Palazzo Amisani in Piazza Marconi, Pieve del Cairo, and houses a collection of objects related to fishing and the history of the Po River. The collection was started in 2008 by a group of friends aiming to promote the river and create a tourist route and a fishing reserve. Currently, the museum occupies five rooms of the palace, divided by fishing tools and periods, and contains about 300 items, including fishing rods, lines, nets, and other tools. It also has an educational purpose, promoting environmental protection and a passion for fishing. Additionally, there are educational panels dedicated to the water cycle.