Torri del Benaco Castle
Museum – Torri del Benaco, Lake Garda
The Scaligero Castle of Torri del Benaco
The castle’s history dates back to the 10th century when the oldest part was constructed on the lakeshore under the commission of Lombard King Berengar II. This fortification was built to protect the region from Hungarian invasions. The strategic importance of Torri del Benaco, halfway along the lake route between Peschiera and Riva, made it an ideal location for such a stronghold.
In 1383, Antonio della Scala, one of the Lords of Verona, undertook the expansion of the castle. He built upon the pre-existing Roman remains, adjacent to the keep established by King Berengar. This enhancement solidified the castle’s defensive capabilities and its role as a significant military and commercial hub in the region.
Despite these fortifications, the castle fell to the Visconti, lords of Milan, just four years later, after a brief six-day siege. Legend has it that the local population, favoring the rule of Antonio della Scala, willingly accepted the transition to Visconti control.
Today, the Scaligero Castle remains remarkably well-preserved. Its high walls and three towers provide panoramic views over the old city’s rooftops, the port, and Lake Garda, extending as far as the coasts of Sirmione and Limone. These vantage points highlight the strategic and scenic value of the castle’s location.
The castle houses an ethnological museum that offers a fascinating insight into the local culture and history. Exhibits cover various aspects of life in the region, including fishing, olive oil production, and viticulture. Notably, while the western shore of Lake Garda is renowned for lemon cultivation, the eastern shore near Torri del Benaco has also hosted a lemon grove since 1760, adding to the area’s agricultural heritage.
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