Going on vacation on Lake Garda means not only beach, sport, and good cuisine. In fact, from north to south, this area is an actual cradle of history and culture.
Its main feature? The presence of medieval castles and fortifications.
Usually perched on rocky spurs, these manors dominate the surrounding territory, offering breathtaking views of Lake Garda and recalling the noble deeds of distant dynasties such as that of Della Scala or Scaligers, ruler of Verona and its surroundings for one hundred and twenty-five years.
ON THE TRACES OF THE SCALIGER CASTLES
The Scaliger Castles were built between 1262 and 1387 by the noble family of Della Scala. Nowadays they are still present in the eastern area of Lake Garda, along the slopes of the Alps, between Verona and Bassano del Grappa and in the Po Valley south of Verona.
These manors are easily recognizable thanks to their dovetail battlements. In this article we’ve selected the most fascinating ones in close proximity to Residence Ca’ del Lago.
Scaliger Castle of Sirmione
This manor is undoubtedly one of the best known in this area. It is located right at the entrance to the town's historic center, and from its towers, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the peninsula. The castle is surrounded by water and is accessible only by two bridges.
Scaliger Castle of Malcesine
Definitely the most beautiful of the entire lake, the Scaliger Castle di Malcesine stands on a rocky spur. Thanks to its strategic position, it played an important role in controlling lake traffic as well as protecting the territory. The only access point today is the Porta Siresina.
Scaliger Castle of Lazise
The Castle and walls of Lazise were built between 1375 and 1381. The castle is privately owned and not open to the public. However, within the walls, there is a large public park with a playground: an opportunity to dive into history surrounded by the local flora.
Scaliger Castle of Torri del Benaco
Berengario I - King of Italy from 887 and Holy Roman Emperor from 915 - erected a castle on some Roman ruins and surrounded the town with thick defensive walls. Later, in 1383, Antonio della Scala built the castle as we see it today. Nowadays it houses a Historical Ethnographic Museum and a traditional lemon house.
Scaliger Castle of Valeggio sul Mincio
The Scaliger Castle of Valeggio sul Mincio is located less than 15 minutes from Lake Garda. It was built in the 14th century and is situated on top of a hill. Almost the entire ancient part collapsed in 1117 due to an earthquake; only the Torre Tonda was saved. Today, during the summer, the castle turns into an open-air cinema and hosts many shows.
These are the most remarkable Scaliger Castles of Lake Garda (at least in our opinion). Do you want to find out more? Visit the other fortifications of this dynasty in Villafranca, Verona and Soave or get on the trail of other noble families of the Benacus!
OTHER CASTLES
Fortress of Peschiera del Garda
Peschiera del Garda was initially fortified by the Scaligeri dynasty in the 13th century. Once it became part of the Republic of Venice, 5 bastions and monumental gates were added. Since 2017, Peschiera del Garda has become a UNESCO World Heritage site as a perfect model of a fortified city.
Rocca of Garda
The Rocca of Garda is a hill with a flat top that dominates Garda and Bardolino and offers an amazing view. In the 5th century, the Lombards built a fortress there, of which only ruins remain today, wrapped in dense vegetation. During the walk to the top, look carefully through the woods!
Castle of Arco
This town in the province of Trento is located at the northern end of Lake Garda and hosts the ruins of a medieval castle. Only the towers and part of the walls remain of this fortress and you can visit them. A must: a picnic on the grass at the foot of the castle!
Rocca of Riva del Garda
This medieval fortress is one of the main attractions of Riva del Garda. It is located on an artificial island and is therefore completely surrounded by water. Access is only possible via a small bridge that allows the tourists to visit the so-called MAG: Museo Alto Garda.
Castle of Desenzano
The Castle was built on the foundations of a Roman castrum and can be reached after a short but intense uphill walk through the town's alleys. Once at the top, however, all the effort will be paid with a wonderful view of Desenzano and the lake!
Castles, fortresses, and fortifications are nice to see (and to live). Have you ever thought about planning an event into a castle? Throughout the year the fortresses of Lake Garda become the ideal locations for unforgettable moments!
