The Catajo Castle, a monumental building rich in history, charm, and legends, was constructed starting in the 16th century by Pio Enea I degli Obizzi in Battaglia Terme (Padua). This unique residence has served various roles over time, including a princely villa, military quarters, literary gathering place, and imperial palace.
Originally built to celebrate the Obizzi family’s grandeur, the castle was expanded by them in the 17th and 18th centuries. It was later transformed into a ducal palace by the House of Habsburg-Este of Modena and ultimately became a summer residence for the Habsburg emperors of Austria. By the 16th century, it had already become home to one of Europe’s most important collections.