Montebello Castle, Medieval fortress in Bellinzona, Switzerland.
Montebello Castle is a medieval fortress standing on a rocky hilltop east of Bellinzona, with a distinctive rhomboid shape. Deep moats surround the structure and connect it to the city's defensive walls.
The Rusca family built the fortress before 1313, and the Visconti took control by the end of the 14th century. Major expansions continued until 1490, shaping the structure visible today.
The castle holds an archaeological museum displaying regional artifacts, ceremonial weapons, and a 13th-century baptismal font from the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the physical traces of centuries of local history within these walls.
The fortress is open daily from April through November and reachable by a path from the city center. Wear comfortable shoes, as the climb to the hilltop involves some steep sections.
The cellars beneath the fortress have been used for generations to age regional salami, a traditional practice that continues to this day. These historical spaces still serve their original purpose of storing local specialties.
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