Crenellated walls, magnificent historic rooms, a garden inspired by centuries-old traditions… this fortress in northern Italy is a striking example of medieval architecture.
It is the landmark you cannot miss when arriving in Angera. With its imposing silhouette overlooking the town, the Rocca di Angera dominates the Lombard shore of Lake Maggiore. This remarkable, almost thousand-year-old castle offers sweeping views over the lake and the Alps. Impressive both in scale and in its state of preservation, it now stands as one of the finest medieval sites in the region.
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From watchtower to defensive fortress
In Italian, “rocca” means fortress—but before becoming one, the structure was a simple watchtower built in the early Middle Ages. Constructed in 1066, it originally belonged to the archbishops of Milan and notably served as a refuge for Archbishop Leone da Perego in the 13th century.
In 1277, following the victory of the Visconti family over the Della Torre at the Battle of Desio, the fortress passed into Visconti hands. The powerful Italian family expanded and embellished the site, leaving behind remarkable frescoes still visible today.
Later, in the 15th century, the fortress changed ownership several times before being acquired in 1449 by Vitaliano Borromeo, treasurer to Duke Filippo Maria. His family made it a key element of their defensive network around Lake Maggiore, alongside Isola Bella and Isola Madre.
A remarkably preserved site
While the fortress itself is impressive, its interiors are just as striking. As you explore, the Rocca reveals a series of beautifully preserved historic rooms, spread across its wings and towers. The architectural complex is organised around several sections, including the Castellana tower, the Visconti wing and the Borromeo wing.
The most remarkable room is undoubtedly the Hall of Justice. Located in the Visconti wing, it features exceptional 14th-century frescoes covering the walls and extending across ribbed vault ceilings. A space that stands out both for its beauty and its extraordinary preservation.
Another unique feature of the castle is the Doll and Toy Museum, created in 1988 by Princess Bona Borromeo Arese. Considered one of the most important in Europe, it houses hundreds of pieces, including antique dolls and rare automata dating from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
A historic garden overlooking Lake Maggiore
The visit continues outdoors with the discovery of the vast 2,000 m² gardens. Framed by vineyards and crenellated walls, they offer stunning views over Lake Maggiore.
Created in 2008 based on historical models, the gardens are divided into several areas:
- a vegetable garden and its small chapel,
- a herb garden with around a hundred medicinal and dye plants,
- the Princes’ garden, designed for relaxation and conversation,
- a rose garden with its fountain and pergola,
- and a wooded area marking the transition to untamed nature, crossed by a small stream.
A faithful tribute to traditions of the past, inviting visitors to step back through centuries of history and discover a lesser-known side of Italy.
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