Looking up from the cobblestone streets of Bellinzona’s city centre, it is impossible not to be captivated by the imposing silhouette of its three medieval castles. Castelgrande, Castello di Montebello and Castello di Sasso Corbaro are not simply tourist attractions: they are the silent guardians of a millennia-old history that made the Ticino capital a strategic crossroads between northern and southern Europe for centuries. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, they are today one of the most extraordinary examples of medieval military architecture in the entire Alpine arc.

The journey must begin at Castelgrande, the oldest and most imposing of the three, perched on a rocky spur in the heart of the city. Its two towers — the Torre Bianca (White Tower) and Torre Nera (Black Tower) — dominate the horizon and offer a 360-degree panoramic view stretching from snowy Alpine peaks to the Magadino plain. For guests of Fortezza Home | Casa, located right at the foot of the castle, Castelgrande becomes almost a private park: a place where morning jogging, reading and history naturally converge.

Climbing up the eastern hillside, you encounter Castello di Montebello, considered by many to be the most scenic and photogenic of the trio. Its intricate system of inner courtyards and the Civic Museum with its archaeological and numismatic collections make it an essential stop for history enthusiasts and photographers alike. Finally, for the more adventurous, the climb continues to Sasso Corbaro: isolated, austere and majestic, this fortress dominates the entire valley from the highest point, offering unforgettable sunsets that bathe the ancient stones in gold.

Visiting the Castles of Bellinzona is a complete sensory experience. Between temporary exhibitions, seasonal medieval markets and the terraced vineyards that climb up the hillsides, every visit tells a different story. The ancient “murate” — the defensive walls connecting the castles — are now public walking paths, ideal for sunset strolls. An invitation to slow down and be surprised by the place where the Middle Ages coexist in perfect harmony with the contemporary vitality of modern Bellinzona.

👉 Find out more at www.fortezzahome.ch

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