Sasso Corbaro Castle

Sasso Corbaro is the highest of the three castles of Bellinzona, set on a rocky ridge on the eastern side of the town above the Ticino valley. It is the youngest of the group, and it has a different character from the other two: where Castelgrande and Montebello are tied into the town walls, Sasso Corbaro stands alone on its height, with a compact, nearly square plan around a central keep. Together with the other two castles and the walls connecting them, it forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage site inscribed in 2000.

Its history is short and sharp. After the Swiss victory at Giornico in 1478 against the forces of the duchy of Milan, the Sforza rulers of Milan, who then held Bellinzona, decided to strengthen their defences on the southern side of the Alpine passes. The castle was built in a very short time in 1479, and traditional accounts say that the work took only a matter of months. The keep and surrounding walls were designed for defence against the Confederates to the north, and the location above the town gave long views of the valley. The Swiss took Bellinzona in 1500, and the castle was known as the Castle of Unterwalden during their rule.

Today the castle is used for exhibitions and events, and the rooms host displays that change from season to season, covering topics from regional history and traditions to contemporary art. The interior is simple and robust, with thick walls, small windows and stone floors, and the courtyard and terraces offer wide views. From the walls you look down on the town and its other two castles, across the valley toward the mountains, and on a clear day toward the higher Alps. Photographers favour the late afternoon, when the light on the valley gives depth to the view.

Getting to Sasso Corbaro is part of the experience. A road winds up from the town, and in season a small shuttle bus or car reaches the gate, but many visitors prefer to walk on the steep path through woodland, which takes some time and is rewarded by gradually opening views. Good shoes are advisable. Because of its altitude and its seasonal opening, the castle is usually closed in the colder months, so check dates and times on the Bellinzona tourism website before you travel. A combined pass for the three castles is available at the other sites.

Sasso Corbaro suits hikers, photographers, history readers and families who enjoy a climb. It is quieter than Castelgrande, which makes it a good choice for those who prefer a calm visit. Allow about an hour at the castle itself, plus walking time up and down, and plan the visit for a clear day so that you can see the full panorama over Bellinzona and the valley.