Description
Just 20 kilometres to the south of Trento in Italy is the castle of Beseno. It is not only the largest fortress in the autonomous province of Trentino. Thanks to its position on a hill, it also offers a panoramic view of the Vallagarina.
Castel Beseno was built in the 12th century and has undergone many changes and extensions over the centuries. In the past, the castle was considered a strategic point and served as a defensive structure. One of the most important battles was the Battle of Calliano in 1487, which took place between the Tyrolean troops and the Venetian troops. Later, after a fire, the castle was converted into a residential building. In 1973, just before it fell into ruins, it was donated to the autonomous province of Trentino. It is now restored and open to the public.
A tour of the different areas of the castle allows visitors to admire the well-preserved parts of the castle. In the rooms of Palazzo di Marcabruno there is a permanent exhibition on the Battle of Calliano. The exhibition includes impressive pictures, videos and replicas. There are also temporary exhibitions that allow visitors to get to know life in the Middle Ages in Trentino. The castle emphasises an interactive visit. You can shoot a bow, play chess and try on knight's armour.
One of the highlights of the visit is a walk along the battlements of the castle. From here you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the Adige Valley. The viewpoints not only offer a panoramic view of the valley, but also illustrate the former strategic importance of Castel Beseno, with the neighbouring castles of Castel Pietra and Castel Noarna in sight.
Interesting facts
- The day pass at Castle Beseno is €7 making it one of the 15 cheapest tourist Attractions in Italy.
How to get there
- Beseno Castle can be visited on the way home from Lake Garda without a long detour. First take the A22 from Riva del Garda. The correct exit is Rovereto Nord. From there, it is only a 15-minute drive along the Main Road 12 to the castle's free car park. It's a five-minute walk from the car park to the castle.
- From Trento, it takes about 20 minutes by car.
- From Bolzano, it takes about one hour on the A22 to Beseno Castle.