Castle of Bellizona

With the mighty walls, towers, battlements and gates

The castles of Bellinzona are one of Ticino’s main attractions, and are the only medieval military complex in the Alpine region, with the old walls still standing. In 2000 they became a part of UNESCO’s World Heritages. A visit to the castles teaches a lot in history with the splendor of the fortifications with their high towers and crenulated walls.  The walk inside the historic center of Bellinzona is also of interest, particularly on Saturdays, when you can see the local market. There are also Audio Guides available.

The strategic location of Bellinzona at the crossroads of the alpine routes linking the north to the south is the reason why a significant defensive project with three castles, towers and city walls was constructed around the year 400. The Dukes of Milan blocked the valley of the Ticino River. It was designed to prevent the South from gaining ground by the Swiss Confederates. The only entrance to the north is this passage at the narrowing point of the valley.

Castelgrande 

You can take the elevator from Piazza del Sole, or walk up the streets which begin at the center of the town in the Collegiata, to access the first castle Castelgrande. The small tourist train leaving Piazza Collegiata, like the other castles, is accessible also. Two high towers and crenulated walls, which were partially accessible on foot, have been fitted to Castelgrande, which was subjected to an effective renovation led by Architect Aürlio Galfettti in the 1980s and 1990s. It houses a museum of the city history and a restaurant run by the Tourism School Canton Ticino. 

Montebello

From Castelgrande you can enter Montebello Castle, situated on the opposite hill, by heading down the stairway leading up to Piazza Collegiata and climbing up the street adjacent to the church of the name. The castle comes to life during the Spring Event La Spada nelle Rocca where ladies, horsemen, archers and musicians in beautiful costumes can be seen along the walls This castle also houses a history and archaeology museum.

Sasso Corbaro

The third castle, Sasso Corbaro, dominates the city and enjoys a stunning view from above. From Montebello, it can be reached by following the stretches of trails through the vineyards and the stretches of road, which are also accessible by car. It houses exhibition halls and an impressive restaurant.

General information

Bellinzona Pass

• FEATURES

Available from 01.04.2021 – 07.11.2021


DESCRIPTION

The Bellinzona Pass is an entrance ticket to the Three Castles of Bellinzona, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000, and the civic museum Villa dei Cedri (opening days: from wednesday to sunday).

TICKET INCLUDES

• Entrance to the Castles of Bellinzona
• Entrance to museums, permanent and temporary exhibitions of the Castles
• Entrance to Villa dei Cedri

PARTNERSHIP

As added value to the Bellinzona Pass, partnerships with some of the most important tourist attractions in the Canton have been developed. This reciprocal collaboration is specific to:

• Cable car Monte Carasso Mornera 20% (Tibetan Bridge)
• Fossil Museum of the Monte San Giorgio 20%

Benefit from a 20% discount on the Bellinzona Pass by presenting an entrance ticket from one of the above mentioned attractions at one of the ticket counters of the Bellinzona Castles.