Baradello Castle, Como, Italy

The Castello Baradello is a military fortification located on a 430 m high hill next to the city of Como. The castle occupies the ancient site of Comum Oppidum, the original settlement of Como, dating from the 1st millennium BC. Later it was one of the last Byzantine strongholds in the area, surrendering to the Lombards in 588. The castle was restored during the War of the Lombard League, with the help of emperor Frederick Barbarossa (1158). Barbarossa officially donated it to the citizens of Como in 1178.

Napoleone della Torre died here in 1278, having been imprisoned here by Ottone Visconti after the Battle of Desio; his nephew Guido was able to escape in 1283, as well as his brothers Corrado and Enrico the following year. Azzone Visconti restored and enlarged the fortification after conquering Como in 1335, and built another castle, the Castello della Torre Rotonda ('Castle of the Round Tower', now lost) and a citadel.

In 1527, by order of emperor Charles V, the castle was dismantled, with the exception of the tower, to prevent it from falling in hands of the French troops that had invaded the duchy of Milan. After belonging to monks and then to private individuals, the castle was restored in 1971.

The most preserved element is a square tower. It once had Guelph-type merlons. The walls are of Byzantine origin (6th-7th century); these were later heightened and provided with Guelph merlons, while another external line of walls was added.

Also from the 6th century are the Chapel of St. Nicholas and quadrangular tower, which was used as the castellan's residence. Napoleone della Torre was buried in the Chapel of St. Nicholas.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

Christopher Campos Melia (2 years ago)
Great collection in the music wing of the museum. Highly recommended just for that part of the museum. The archeology museum was not as great. If you can definitely check it out the location being within the old castle makes the whole experience worth it.

Marius Popa (2 years ago)
Nice uphill walk, view over part of Como Lake and city

Edward Todd (2 years ago)
Although the castle is closed in the winter, the walk up offers great views when you circle around the walls. We had a nice picnic on the walls overlooking the city. The footpaths are not well signposted on the way up from the town. The information boards are not very detailed.

John Thornton (3 years ago)
Unfortunately only open weekend, looks interesting from the outside

Marja Verbon (3 years ago)
Great little hike from como - especially if you go via the Spina Verde walking route. Bring a picnic or eat at the Baita nearby.

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