Castello di Montebello, the last castle on our tour, is located to the east of the town center. It was built before 1313 for the pro-Holy Roman Emperor, Rusca family, who occupied the castle even after the Visconti victory and occupation of Castelgrande. By 1491 Castello di Montebello was also in the hands of the Dukes of Milan.
Unlike Castelgrande high above the town center, Castello di Montebello, was not protected by natural features. It is surrounded by deep moats that protected the walls. It consists of a 13th century Keep and a 15th century residential palace. This fortress is the most complex of Bellinzona’s three castles. The walls which link Castello di Montebello to the town of Bellinzona to the east and Castelgrande to the west created a formidable defense system.
An arrowhead shaped barbican was added to the east of the moat and was protected by another moat and machicolated battlements on the north side.
The Inner Keep dates from before 1313 and is an irregular rectangle. The Keep was built with a high, strong outer wall with living quarters and utility buildings along the inner wall.
The well in the inner eastern bailey may be from the original castle.
The well in the inner eastern bailey may be from the original castle.
In 1499 nearly one and a half centuries of Milanese rule ended with the invasion of Milan by Louis XII of France. He captured Bellinzona and fearing an attack by the Swiss, fortified Castelgrande with 1000 troops. In January of 1500 an armed revolt of the citizens of Bellinzona drove the French troops from the city. Following the capture of Ludovica Sforza in April 1500 and seeking protection from France, Bellinzona joined the Swiss Confederation.
The little chapel, dedicated to Saint Michael that leans against the wall of a south-facing section of the inner fortress, was built around 1600 under the rule of the Swiss Cantons.
The little chapel, dedicated to Saint Michael that leans against the wall of a south-facing section of the inner fortress, was built around 1600 under the rule of the Swiss Cantons.
A Museum located inside the Keep contains Archeological and Historical exhibits including items from 1400–1500 B.C. as well as ceramics, glassware, ornamental objects and jewelry in iron and bronze from around the canton. The museum also displays several stone capitals from the 15th century and ceremonial and military weapons.
Jim and I decided to walk back down to the Old Town and as we descended the steep stone path, we had an appreciation for the defensive location of the impressive Castello di Montebello. The perfect end to our tour of the amazing UNESCO World Heritage stone fortress castles of Bellinzona!
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