Castello di Maniago

The construction of Castello di Maniago was a response to the administrative challenges faced by the Patriarchate of Aquileia after Emperor Otto II granted the lands of Maniago to Patriarch Rodoaldo. The remote location of the fief and the threat from neighboring, consolidated possessions such as Spilimbergo, the D’Estes' Cellino Valley, Millstatt Abbey, and the Polcenigos in Mizza, necessitated the building of a castle and the establishment of a “residential fief.” The Flagogna family held the largest share of the residential fief, followed by the Pinzanos, Polcenigos, and Varmos, who, in exchange for protection and administration, held rights to the lands. In 1216, the castle successfully repelled a siege by the troops of Ezzelino II da Romano and Vecellone da Camino. Olvrando di Maniago acquired the Flagognas' share in 1277 and had a residence, the “Domus de Medio,” built.