These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill ruins; they’re perched on tiny islands in Lake Maggiore, looking like they’ve sailed straight out of a storybook. And let me tell you, their history is just as wild as their location. It’s not a tale of genteel lords and ladies; it’s a saga of pirates, sieges, and a whole lot of strategic thinking. Located near the shores of Cannero Riviera, these castles weren’t always the romantic ruins you see today. They started out as a pirate’s hideout, a base for the Mazzardi brothers, who were basically the terror of Lake Maggiore back in the 15th century.
Cannero Castles Description
They’re proper ruins, with a history that’s a bit more “Game of Thrones” than your average lakeside attraction. We’re talking crumbling walls, towers that have seen better days, and a whole lot of stories whispered on the wind. They’re more like rugged survivors, defying time and the elements. Think of them as the lake’s stubborn residents, refusing to budge.
The castles are actually two separate structures, perched on those tiny islets. It’s a bit like they’re floating on the lake, giving them a unique and slightly eerie vibe. It wasn’t just about building one castle, it was about creating multiple points of defense. You can see the remains of towers, walls, and even some internal structures, though they’re definitely showing their age.
What to Expect at Cannero Castles
Those crumbling ruins sitting on those little islands in Lake Maggiore? They’re not just some pretty scenery; they’ve got a seriously interesting backstory. We’re talking pirates, sieges, and a whole lot of drama. It wasn’t all sunshine and sailboats, that’s for sure.
The boat tour around these ruins
First off, you’ll need to get to Cannero Riviera, a lovely town on Lake Maggiore. Then, it’s a boat trip to the islands where the castles stand. The boat ride itself is worth it, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. It’s like a mini-adventure before you even set foot on the islands. What you’ll find are the remnants of medieval fortifications, crumbling walls, and the foundations of towers. It’s not a museum with exhibits and guided tours; it’s more of a self-guided experience.
Think of it as a historical scavenger hunt. You’ll see traces of the Mazzardi brothers’ pirate lair, and the later renovations that turned it into a proper fortress. It’s a place where history is etched into the stones, and you can almost hear the echoes of the past.
These castles are weathered, worn, and wonderfully authentic. It’s not about seeing perfectly preserved rooms; it’s about experiencing the raw beauty of a place that’s been shaped by time and history. You’ll get a real sense of what life was like in a medieval fortress, and you’ll appreciate the strategic importance of these island strongholds.
The Origins of the Cannero Castles
So, the Cannero Castles, originally known as “Malpaga”, were built sometime between the 13th and 14th centuries. They were already there when the Mazzardi brothers, those local ruffians from Ronco, decided to make them their own personal playground. Now, the Mazzardis weren’t exactly model citizens.
Around the turn of the 15th century, when Cannobio was having a bit of a “Guelfs versus Ghibellines” situation, the Mazzardis decided to seize the moment. They took over the pretorian palace, stormed Cannero, and claimed the Malpaga as their own. Enter Filippo Maria Visconti, the Duke of Milan. By 1414, he’d had enough of the Mazzardi’s antics. He sent an army of 500 men, led by Giovanni Lonati, to kick them out. After a short siege, the Malpaga was destroyed, and the Mazzardis were sent packing.
Fast forward a few years, and the Cannobio fiefdom ended up in the hands of the Borromeo family. Lodovico Borromeo decided to rebuild the fortress in 1519, naming it “Vitaliana” after his family’s origins. But, honestly, it wasn’t the most practical location. Being so close to the shore made it hard to defend, and after Lodovico’s death, it was pretty much abandoned.
