From the hill that rises above the centre of Masnago (a historic locality that is now a district of Varese) dominates the landscape a very interesting castle surrounded by a park that is very rich from a botanical point of view.

One of the most precious trees is the mighty red beech just a few steps away from the historical residence that was built around the medieval tower and later embellished over the centuries with frescoes (including 15th-century Late Gothic courtly representations). 

The tree surprises with its superficial roots, its large 4.5 metre circumference (145 cm diameter), its 26 metre high trunk and its vast, lush foliage supported by an impressive intertwining of branches. What makes the view even more exciting is the proximity of a large holm oak, also monumental, whose foliage embraces that of the beech tree.

Green and architectural monuments thus meet at Masnago Castle, which is now home to the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and also hosts temporary exhibitions. An ideal place for lovers of art and nature.

(Ph: Luca Pernechele)