Visconti Castle

Location

A short distance from Castelletto sopra Ticino, the castle lies in an overlooking position near the Ticino, a few hundred meters from where Lake Maggiore ceases and the southern portion of the river begins its course.

History

The castle was first mentioned in the 12th century as the property of the Da Castello, a family from Novara.

In the 13th century, it was in the possession of members of a cadet branch of the Visconti house, Ottone and later Uberto Visconti, who originated the new cadet branch of the Visconti di Castelletto. In 1329, the Visconti di Castelletto obtained a royal diploma confirming their lordship on Castelletto sopra Ticino.

Enriched by duties on goods in transit along the river, the Visconti di Castelletto extended their dominions in the 15th century to the area surrounding the southern Lake Maggiore (Sesto Calende, Angera, Lisanza, Borgo Ticino, Pombia, Varallo Pombia, Invorio Superiore, Paruzzaro).

The castle was renovated over the following centuries, mainly on the western side, and transformed into an aristocratic residence. It had been a property of the Visconti until the beginning of the 20th century.

Today

Today, the castle is a private real estate. It retains its original quadrilateral shape with a tower on each corner. It is in good condition.

Three types of masonry, probably related to different construction phases, are visible: river pebbles, squared stones, and plastered walls. The two towers facing the Ticino appear truncated. On one tower stands the coat of arms of the Visconti d'Aragona, the last Visconti branch to own the building.