Turning its back to the Staffora torrent, the compact nucleus of the borgo of Varzi is interrupted by stone towers and bell towers. From a distance, the picturesque borgo invites you into its historic centre of narrow streets and medieval arcades. Having become Marquis of Varzi in 1275, the Malaspina family established their seat of power there, restructuring their castle and building a new district closer to the Staffora. Both the main buildings, the 18th century Palazzo Tamburelli-Malaspina, now the Town Hall and the Castle overlook Piazza Umberto I. Dominating both the old and new town, the Castle has a tower called “delle streghe” (of the witches): an imposing tower, 29m high, dominating the borgo and the valley; it was used as a prison until the 1960s. The tower of Porta Sottana has its original quadrangular plant, pointed arches and stone walls that still incorporate the hinges of the city gates. Along the Via di Dentro, the road that connects the two gates, are some of the most prestigious buildings of Varzi. The Church of the Rossi, built-in 1636 by the Brotherhood of the Trinity, takes its name from their red cloaks; it has an elaborate balustrade and altar. The carved walnut furniture including the choir and the chair dated 1785 are remarkable. On the right is an Angel, a gilded wooden sculpture of 1684 and a painting with the Blessed Panacea. Built in the same year, the Church of the Bianchi derives its name from the white robe worn by the members of the Compagnia dei Battuti.