Lake Como Castle, specifically the Vezio Castle, is a medieval fortress located in Perledo, overlooking the picturesque town of Varenna on the shores of Lake Como in Italy. This captivating castle has stood tall for over a thousand years, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich history and stunning natural beauty.
History and Origins
The Vezio Castle’s origins can be traced back to the early medieval period, with legends suggesting that it was built by the Lombard Queen Theodelinda to defend and control the lake and surrounding villages. This strategic location allowed the castle to play a crucial role in the region’s history, serving as a stronghold and a symbol of power for various rulers over the centuries.
Architecture and Features
The Vezio Castle boasts a unique architectural design, featuring a square-based lookout tower that is accessible through a small drawbridge. The castle’s quadrangular walls are partially adorned with angular towers, adding to its impressive and imposing presence. Visitors can explore the partially visitable dungeons and admire the statues scattered throughout the castle’s well-maintained gardens.
In addition to its historical significance, the Vezio Castle also hosts temporary art exhibitions in its gardens and a permanent exhibition on Lariosaurus, a prehistoric marine reptile, within the tower. These exhibitions provide visitors with a multifaceted experience, blending the castle’s rich history with contemporary artistic expressions.
Visiting Information
The Vezio Castle is open to the public from March to November, with varying hours depending on the month. During the peak season of June, July, and August, the castle is open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, while in the shoulder seasons of April, May, September, and October, the hours are from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Visitors can explore the castle without the need for reservations, and the last admission is 20 minutes before closing time. It’s important to note that access with dogs is only permitted on a leash, and visitors should keep a safe distance from the owl’s aviary and avoid letting their dogs enter the lawns and green areas.
Surroundings and Natural Beauty
The Vezio Castle’s strategic location on the shores of Lake Como is truly breathtaking. Perched atop a hill, the castle commands a panoramic view of the entire center of Lake Como, showcasing the region’s natural beauty and the picturesque towns that dot the shoreline.
Interestingly, the castle is surrounded by one of the northernmost olive groves in the world, thanks to the temperature-regulating effects of the lake’s waters. This unique microclimate allows for the cultivation of this Mediterranean crop in an otherwise temperate climate, adding to the castle’s charm and the overall experience for visitors.
Other Castles on Lake Como
While the Vezio Castle is the primary focus of this article, it’s worth noting that Lake Como is home to several other impressive castles and fortresses, each with its own unique history and architectural features.
- Castello di Corenno Plinio: A well-preserved castle built between 1363 and 1370, serving a defensive role.
- Castello di Musso: Built by the Lombards to control the via Regina, later destroyed and now in ruins.
- Castello di Rezzonico: A 15th-century castle, now private property, with three crenellated towers and walls.
These castles, along with the Vezio Castle, offer visitors a chance to explore the rich history and stunning natural landscapes that make Lake Como such a captivating destination.
Conclusion
The Vezio Castle on Lake Como is a true gem, a testament to the region’s storied past and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the enchanting shores of this iconic Italian lake. With its impressive architecture, captivating history, and breathtaking natural surroundings, the Vezio Castle promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture to its gates.
References
- https://mylakecomo.co/en/attractions/vezio-castle/
- https://www.lakecomo.is/project/castles-and-fortresses/
- https://www.bellagiolakecomo.com/en/bellagio-lake-como-italy/fortresses-and-castles-lake
- https://varennaturismo.com/en/vezio-castle/
- https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g187833-Activities-c47-t6-Lake_Como_Lombardy.html