Rising on a rocky cliff directly above the old town of Bellinzona, Castelgrande Castle is not only the oldest and largest fortress of the famous "triple" (along with Montebello and Sasso Corbaro), but also one of the most impressive medieval defensive complexes in Switzerland. Since 2000, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pre-Roman and Roman periods of Castelgrande Castle
Archaeological excavations confirm that the rock on which Castelgrande stands was already inhabited during the Neolithic era, around 5500 BC. The first fortifications appeared here in the 1st century BC under the Roman emperor Augustus.
The Romans recognized the strategic position of the hill, which controlled the routes to three of the most important Alpine passes: St. Gotthard, Lukmanier, and San Bernardino. In the 4th century AD, under emperors Diocletian and Constantine, a powerful fortress already existed on this site, designed to house an entire cohort of several hundred soldiers.
Early Middle Ages of Castelgrande Castle
After the fall of the Roman Empire, the fortress successively came under the control of the Ostrogoths, Byzantines, and Lombards. The Lombards used it as a permanent garrison to protect the valley from Frankish raids. In subsequent centuries, Castelgrande became a possession of the Bishops of Como, who established their residence here. Within the fortress walls, noble families built their own residential towers.
The period of the Duchy of Milan
The true flourishing of Castelgrande Castle came after 1340, when power in the region passed to the Milanese Visconti family. They were the ones who turned Castelgrande into an impregnable stronghold. Between 1473 and 1486, the main walls and towers that have survived to this day were built. The castle became a key element of the so-called Murata — a 500-meter-long fortress wall that blocked the entire valley of the Ticino River. This structure protected the Duchy of Milan and simultaneously controlled trade routes through the Alps.
The Swiss period of Castelgrande Castle
In 1500, after the expulsion of the French garrison by the local population, Bellinzona voluntarily joined the Swiss Confederation. Castelgrande Castle was renamed Uri Castle after the canton that assumed control of the fortress. However, over time, the military significance of the fortification diminished, and it gradually fell into decline. In the 19th century, after the formation of the canton of Ticino, the castle received another historical name — San Michele.
Modern restoration of Castelgrande Castle
Between 1980 and 1991, a large-scale restoration was carried out under the direction of the architect Aurelio Galfetti. The project provoked mixed reactions, but ultimately was recognized as successful. Galfetti delicately integrated modern concrete and steel structures into the ancient masonry, not destroying the historical appearance but merely emphasizing it. It was then that modern elevators and viewing platforms appeared.
What to see today at Castelgrande Castle
The castle grounds are open to the public. Access to the walls and towers is generally free. A fee is charged only for visiting the museum and, during certain hours, for taking the elevator.
Ways to ascend to Castelgrande Castle
By elevator. The modern concrete elevator shaft is located at Piazza del Sole (Sun Square). The elevator takes visitors to the top in just a few seconds. This is a convenient option for those who want to save energy.
On foot. From Piazza Collegiata (Collegiate Square), the cobbled street Salita San Michele begins. It leads directly to the main gate of the castle and allows you to fully experience the atmosphere of the medieval city.
Two towers: White and Black: The main vertical dominants of the castle are two towers, named for the shade of their stone masonry. The White Tower reaches a height of 27 meters, the Black Tower — 28 meters. Visitors are strongly encouraged to climb the narrow stone staircases to the top. From the tops of the towers, a 360-degree panorama opens up: the entire city, the Ticino River valley, the vineyards on the surrounding hills, as well as the other two castles of Bellinzona — Montebello and Sasso Corbaro. The view is especially picturesque here at sunset.
Archaeological and Historical Museum of Castelgrande Castle: the museum is located in the southern wing of the castle, where a military garrison was once stationed. The exhibition covers 6500 years of history of this site. Artifacts from the Neolithic era to the present day are presented here: stone tools, ceramic vessels, weapons samples, ancient coins (including those minted directly in the castle in the 16th century), and 15th-century frescoes.
Fortress walls and the Murata: a walk along the crenellated walls is an essential part of the visit. Pay attention to the remains of the Murata — the powerful defensive wall that once blocked the entire valley. Part of this wall is integrated into the modern buildings of the castle and can be seen in the underground passages.
Chapel of Santa Maria: a small medieval chapel on the castle grounds serves as a reminder of the spiritual life of its former inhabitants. It functioned throughout the entire period of the fortress`s existence.
Restaurant and grotto: two dining establishments operate on the castle grounds. The Restaurant Castelgrande offers exquisite cuisine and panoramic views. The Grotto San Michele is a traditional Ticino tavern where you can try local wines, risotto, and other dishes of regional cuisine in an authentic atmosphere.
When visiting Castelgrande Castle, it is recommended to:
• Climb the White or Black Tower for a view of the city and surroundings.
• Find the modern elevator by the architect Galfetti as an example of a successful fusion of antiquity and modernity.
• Walk along the fortress walls towards the western bastion, which offers the best view of Montebello Castle.
• Visit the Archaeological and Historical Museum for at least an hour to understand the depth and antiquity of this place.
• Find the embrasures and take framed pictures of the city through them.
Practical Information
Opening hours: The castle grounds and towers are often accessible 24/7. The museum and elevator operate on a seasonal schedule, usually from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and close earlier during the low season.
Cost: Entry to the castle grounds and towers is free. Only the museum is paid. A fee may also be charged for taking the elevator outside of operating hours. Purchasing a combined ticket to visit all three castles (Castelgrande, Montebello, Sasso Corbaro) is cheaper than buying individual tickets.
Castelgrande is the heart of medieval Bellinzona, a place where millennia of history are intertwined. From the Roman legions to modern Switzerland, the castle preserves the memory of every era. A must-visit for its panoramic views and the unique atmosphere of antiquity.
