Tour of Brescia’s castles

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Brescia is a land of never-ending surprises. With dozens of castles, the province of Brescia is the place to be to learn about medieval fortifications, historic battles, and local aristocracy.

While some castles are in ruins, several fortifications can still be visited today: come with us to discover Brescia’s castles!

Castles in the Franciacorta and Lake Iseo area

Several tourists choose Franciacorta as their relaxing vacation destination. In addition to the renowned Franciacorta DOCG wine and the gentle hills dotted with vineyards, Franciacorta attracts tourists thanks to its food&wine offering and stunning views of nearby Lake Iseo. This area is a true treasure trove for visitors.

Numerous local castles are worth seeing, including the Castle of Bornato, Quistini Castle in Rovato with its rose labyrinth and the fairytale gardens, the Castle of Passirano and the ones by the lake like Carmagnola Castle in Clusane,  Oldofredi Castle in Monte Isola, and Lantieri Castle in Paratico. Ancient walls and mighty towers define the horizon and create evocative scenes.

Castles in Valle Camonica

When castles in Valle Camonica are mentioned, one’s mind immediately goes to the Castle of Breno.

Initially, it was a combination of towers and manor houses which was subsequently turned into a military fortification. The visit to the main tower is very interesting; it reaches a height of 20 meters and is the best preserved element of the structure. Valle Camonica guards other noteworthy castles, such as the Castle of Cimbergo, in an exceptional position perched over a stream, and the Castle of Gorzone.

Castles and fortifications in the Valtènesi and Lake Garda area

One highly recommended activity off the coast of Lake Garda is the Valtènesi castle tour. The area boasts several medieval sites nestled in charming old towns, vineyards, and olive gardens with stunning views of Lake Garda.

In addition to the remains of the Castle of Manerba – located in a splendid position on a spur where a cross was also placed and which represents one of the best panoramic spots in lower Lake Garda – the surrounding areas are full of interesting sites such as the castles in Padenghe, Moniga, Soiano, Polpenazze, and Puegnago. Just south, the Castle of Pozzolengo is also noteworthy: this majestic fortification protects the ruins of the church dedicated to St. Lawrence Martyr.

Other southern Lake Garda highlights are the Castle of Desenzano, the Visconti-Venetian-style fortification overlooking the town of Lonato del Garda, and the Scaligeri Castle in Sirmione, in a strategic position at the entrance to the historic center.

Castles and fortifications in Brescia’s plain

The tour continues in Brescia’s plain: in addition to the famous Castle of Padernello you have other important sites worth seeing, such as Martinengo Castle in Villachiara, the Castle of Villagana (in a Villachiara hamlet) with its Renaissance portico, tower, and loggia, and the Castle of Barco, famous for its Italian-style gardens and fountains with water games.

Other cultural and historical heritage landmarks in Brescia’s plain are Bonoris Castle in Montichiari, built in the 19^th century on the ruins of an old medieval fortification, the Castle of Orzinuovi, today hosting an exhibition center and the civic library, and the Castle–Rocchetta and Torre del Popolo in Palazzolo sull’Oglio.

Castle of Brescia, the symbol of the city

Our tour ends in Brescia, with its castle dominating the city and the surrounding area from the top of a hill.

In a strategic position on the Cidneo hill and easily reachable with a 15-minute walk from the historic center, the “Falcon of Italy” is a favorite destination for relaxing walks and numerous cultural initiatives. The main tower, known as “Mastio Visconteo” houses the “Luigi Marzoli” Arms Museum. But there is more: have you seen the two stunning model train displays? And what about the new Risorgimento Museum?

Give yourself the gift of this exciting tour of Brescia’s castles!