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Castelgrande

The main features of interest in Bellinzona are the three castles. The oldest Castelgrande, (known in the 14th C. as Castel Magnum, in the 17th C. as Burg Uri or Altdorf and in 1818 as San Michele), was constructed above a Roman castle. The Torre Bianca (27 m/89ft) and the square Torre Negra 28 m/91ft) form the most ancient part of the five defenses. Situated 50 m/164ft above the town the castle boasts wonderful views.

Castello di Montebello

The Castello di Montebello, (originally Castello Piccolo, later Burg Schwyz and in the 19th C. San Martino), stands on the east side of Bellinzona, where the old town walls divided. It is the most interesting of the three as an example of the art of fortification (originally centered on the keep, with a 13th C. palace and courtyard and further structures built between 1460 and 1480), which now contain a historical and archaeological museum.

Collegiate Church SS Pietro and Stefano

The Roman Catholic Collegiate church SS Pietro and Stefano in Bellinzona dates back to 1424. This fine Renaissance building was largely rebuilt in 1517 by Tomaso Rodari, master builder of Como Cathedral in Italy. The rich Baroque interior and facade were added in the 17th-18th C. The marble high altar is decorated with a representation of the Crucifixion (1658) by either Simone Peterzano or Tintoretto.

Ravecchia

In Bellinzona's outlying district of Ravecchia (1.5km/1mi south), off the road to the left, is the Romanesque church of San Biagio (St Blaise), with fine frescoes of the 14th-15th C.

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January - February -> 2(°C) - Winter
July - August -> 23(°C) - Summer

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