Torre Viscontea, Medieval tower in Lecco, Italy

Torre Viscontea is a medieval tower with a square base standing in Piazza XX Settembre in Lecco. Its distinctive crenellations and raised walkway were added during the 15th century.

The tower was built in the 14th century as part of a larger fortress complex that protected the city. When Emperor Joseph II of Austria ordered the demolition of the main castle in 1782, this tower remained as the sole survivor of the triangular fortification.

The tower's name comes from the Visconti family of Milan, who built it in the 14th century as a watchtower. Alessandro Manzoni, in his novel set in the 17th century, writes that the castle housed the Spanish garrison. Since 1932 the State has entrusted the tower to the Municipality of Lecco, which first placed the Museum of the Risorgimento and the Resistance there and later used it for temporary exhibitions of the Civic Museums and the Culture Department.

The tower has specific opening hours so it's best to check ahead before planning your visit. Its location on a central square makes it easy to reach and convenient to combine with exploring the surrounding old town.

Stone cannonballs remain displayed at the base of the structure, serving as a direct reminder of its defensive military role in the 14th century. These objects give visitors a tangible connection to how the fortification actually functioned.