Best castles around Gravedona Ed Uniti are situated in a region known for its historical significance and scenic location on Lake Como. The town itself features the impressive Palazzo Gallio, built on the site of an older fortification, and remnants of its ancient castle within the historic center. This area offers a blend of Renaissance architecture and medieval history, set against a backdrop of lake and mountain views. The broader vicinity extends to include significant historical sites like the UNESCO…
Last updated: May 20, 2026
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Description Features See also Opening hours 2025/2026 April 5, 2025 - November 9, 2025: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. November 10, 2025 - March 27, 2026: 10:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. The first human settlement on San Michele Hill dates back to 5500/5000 BC (Neolithic period). The first archaeologically confirmed fortress was built in the 4th century AD. Various documents from the 6th century also mention the existence of a fortified complex. In the 14th century, the castle was first called Castrum Magnum, Castel Grande. This is its current name, although during Swiss rule it was called Uri Castle (1630) or Altdorf Castle, and in 1818, S. Michele Castle.
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In Bellinzona's Old Town From the train station, the bus takes us to the stop at the end of Via Lugano. To the east is the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. On the other side of the railway line, we pass the Villa dei Cedri, nestled in a magnificent park and home to the municipal art collection. We head north along Via Pedotti to Piazza San Biagio, where the 13th-century church of the same name can be admired. The church, one of the most interesting in the region, has been restored and stripped of its Baroque additions. The remarkable frescoes date from the late Middle Ages. We return and follow Via Lugano north to Piazza Indipendenza, where we find the Church of San Rocco, a building dating back to 1330 and enlarged in 1478. This is where the actual old town begins. The town hall, with its elegant courtyard, was completely rebuilt in 1924, using materials from the previous 15th-century building. At Piazza Nosetto, with its beautiful porticoes, we turn left onto Via Teatro, passing the restored theater building from the previous century and reaching the government building. The oldest part consists of the former Ursuline convent, dating back to the 13th century and rebuilt in the previous century. Returning to Piazza Nosetto, we approach Piazza Collegiata, passing the Casa Rossa, a brick-clad building inspired by the Lombard style of the 15th century. The massive church of SS. Pietro e Stefano reflects the Renaissance style with Baroque elements. A lively market is held every Saturday in Piazza Collegiata. On Viale Stazione, we find ourselves in the city's commercial district. The post office building is noteworthy, a prime example of contemporary Ticino architecture. Text / Source: Agenzia turistica ticinese SA., Via C. Ghiringhelli 7, Bellinzona https://www.ticino.ch/de/commons/details/In-Bellinzonas-Altstadt/3156.html
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The Fortress of Bellinzona and its Castles Once upon a time, there were knights and drawbridges. Where? In Bellinzona, of course! Take a journey back in time and visit the castles, which were declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2000. Arm yourself with a camera and discover Castel Grande, Montebello, and Sasso Corbaro. Tin-reinforced walls, towers, and enormous gates: you'll be catapulted straight into the Middle Ages! Dream of the knights' heroic deeds and immerse yourself in life back then. The Fortress of Bellinzona offers visitors a hands-on experience of medieval history. You can purchase the Fortress Pass online, at the InfoPoint in Bellinzona, or at the ticket offices of the three castles. It allows you to visit the fortress and its walls, the Castel Grande Museum, the Archeologia Montebello exhibition trail, and the temporary exhibitions. Are you primarily interested in visiting the exhibitions? Then buy the new Expo Pass: a combined ticket that grants access to the temporary exhibitions at Castel Grande, Sasso Corbaro, and the Museo Villa dei Cedri! Text / Source: Bellinzona e Valli Tourism https://www.bellinzonaevalli.ch/de/discover/castles.html
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Beautiful (albeit small) pedestrian zone, very striking castles and fortifications across the valley
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The cityscape of Bellinzona is reminiscent of the 17th century. The castles and city walls are a world heritage site.
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The church dominates the Lario
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Church of S. Eufemia is located on the only large plateau of Sasso di Musso.
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Within Gravedona Ed Uniti, the most significant historical structure is Palazzo Gallio, an impressive Renaissance palace built on the site of an older fortification. You can also explore the remnants of Gravedona's ancient castle, which include traces of old walls and a lookout point called Pra' Castello in the historic center.
For a significant historical day trip, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage castles of Bellinzona in Switzerland. These include Castelgrande Bellinzona, Montebello Castle, and Sasso Corbaro. They offer a hands-on experience of medieval history with walls, towers, and museums.
Yes, the castles in Bellinzona, such as Castelgrande Bellinzona and Montebello Castle, are considered family-friendly. They offer engaging experiences with their historical architecture and museums, allowing families to explore medieval history together.
From Palazzo Gallio in Gravedona Ed Uniti, you'll get breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Como and the surrounding mountains. The Bellinzona castles, like Montebello Castle, offer stunning vistas over Bellinzona and the valley, reaching to Lake Maggiore.
The region around Gravedona Ed Uniti is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking and mountain biking trails. For example, explore routes like the 'High Route of the Lario: San Jorio Pass Loop' for hiking or 'Crotto Dangri – Ponte di Dangri loop from Peglio' for MTB. You can find more details on these activities in the Hiking around Gravedona Ed Uniti and MTB Trails around Gravedona Ed Uniti guides.
Castelgrande Bellinzona is noted as wheelchair accessible. It provides lifts for easier access, making it a good option for visitors with mobility considerations.
The spring and autumn months generally offer pleasant weather for exploring the castles and the surrounding region, avoiding the peak summer heat and crowds. Winter visits are also possible, especially for the Bellinzona castles, but check opening hours as some attractions or facilities might have reduced schedules.
Palazzo Gallio, built in 1586, is a prime example of Renaissance architecture on Lake Como. It was constructed by Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio and stands on the remnants of an older fortification, highlighting Gravedona Ed Uniti's strategic importance throughout history. Today, it hosts cultural events and is a national monument.
Yes, particularly around the Bellinzona castles, you'll find various amenities. Castelgrande Bellinzona has a grotto (bistro) on its premises. The Bellinzona Historic Centre, a short distance from the castles, offers numerous small shops and restaurants.
Visitors frequently appreciate the well-preserved medieval history, the stunning panoramic views of the lakes and mountains, and the cultural events hosted at sites like Palazzo Gallio. The hands-on experience of medieval history at the Bellinzona castles, with their walls, towers, and museums, is also a major highlight.
Beyond Palazzo Gallio, exploring the historic center of Gravedona Ed Uniti allows you to discover the remnants of its ancient castle, including old walls and the Pra' Castello lookout. While not an intact castle, these vestiges offer a glimpse into the town's deep history and strategic past on Lake Como.
The Church of Saint Euphemia on the Sasso di Musso is a historical religious building located on a panoramic position. It was once part of the Rocca Medicea complex, which was a castle that was damaged during battles in 1532. While the castle itself is largely destroyed, the church remains, offering beautiful views and a connection to the area's fortified past.


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