The “Castello del Motto” at Gravellona Toce (VB) is a fortified complex cited in only two documents (in 1025 and 1190), which occupies the summit of the hill of the same name (325 m a.s.l.). This was the third season of excavations and work took place in two areas: Building C (situated on the summit) (Area 2000) and the zone between Building A (the north tower) and wall F (partially visible) (Area 3000). A mechanical digger was used to remove a substantial layer of collapse inside building C, bringing to light a new stretch of wall F (obliterated by a vast fan of stones/gravel), as well as to remove the excavated material. In Area 2000, two-thirds (110 m2) of what was revealed to be a palatium was excavated. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, it was destroyed by a violent wartime event between the 13th and 14th centuries (as attested by the presence of a large number of arrowheads and crossbow bolts. Characterised by thick walls, a stone slab roof and a wooden floor, it was built over the earlier traces of timber structures datable to between the 11th and 12th centuries.

Among the well-preserved finds from the palatium there was a finely decorated bronze dagger sheath, a millstone and a large number of….what?? In Area 3000 (70 m2), the courtyard enclosed by an inner curtain wall, built as further defence for the tower, was partially excavated. Both structures seem to have been built during the 13th century. In an earlier period, the area was occupied by a small masonry building, perhaps a workshop, datable to the 12th century and by earlier timber structures (11th century).

The excavation data, which documents the vast dimensions of the structure, its complex internal layout and privileged socio-economic context, confirms the site’s great importance with relation to the control and management of a large and strategic territory. The continuation of this research will provide more precise indications regarding the chronology of the phases present, the development of its plan, and the socio-economic, cultural and paleo-environmental picture of the site.