Castelgrande

Castelgrande is the largest and oldest of the three castles of Bellinzona, a town in the Swiss canton of Ticino. The fortress sits on a rocky hill above the town and has guarded the route from the Ticino river valley toward the Alpine passes for centuries. Together with Montebello and Sasso Corbaro castles and the defensive walls, it forms a group inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Why visit Castelgrande?

It is Bellinzona's main attraction and the best starting point for understanding the whole fortification system. From the walls and courtyards you get views over the town's rooftops and the wide valley, and the castle's massive outline is visible from far away. After thorough reconstruction and restoration, the site can now be seen in its full splendour.

What is the history of the castle?

The hill was inhabited long before the fortress was built. Archaeologists have found traces of human presence reaching back some 6,500 years, to the first Neolithic villages. The castle itself is regarded as the oldest of Bellinzona's three strongholds and dates back to the Middle Ages, while most of the defensive system seen today was built in the 15th century, largely by the Dukes of Milan. The fortifications were meant to control the route from the Ticino valley, access to the Alpine passes and the trade traffic to and from the Gotthard Pass. Castelgrande later served as a ducal fortress.

Between 1980 and 1991 the Swiss architect Aurelio Galfetti restored the castle. Modern elements blend with the old walls, turning the historic complex back into a living part of the town.

What can you see inside?

The castle houses a museum spread over two floors. Its archaeological section tells the story of 6,500 years of human presence on the hill, from the Neolithic to the 20th century. Temporary exhibitions are held regularly. Within the fortress, it is worth walking along the walls and courtyards and looking out for the two characteristic towers, known as Torre Nera and Torre Bianca.

UNESCO listing

The castles and walls of Bellinzona were added to the World Heritage list on 30 November 2000 under the cultural category (criterion iv). The group is an example of medieval defensive architecture set within an Alpine landscape.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Castelgrande? In Bellinzona, the capital of the canton of Ticino in southern Switzerland, on a hill overlooking the old town.

Is Castelgrande a UNESCO site? Yes, together with Montebello and Sasso Corbaro castles and the town walls.

Which is the oldest castle in Bellinzona? Castelgrande is considered the oldest.

What is there to see inside? A museum with an archaeological section, temporary exhibitions, and walls and courtyards with views over the valley.

Is it worth seeing the other castles? Yes. Montebello and Sasso Corbaro complete the picture of the old defensive system, and together with Castelgrande they form a coherent whole. Check current opening hours with the local tourist office before your visit.