Our tour continues to an historical medieval fortification that was built between the  11th and 13th centuries on a hill to the southeast of Lake Varese.

The castle's defensive function is evidenced by its square tower, which still survives today. The fortress was completed in the 15th century by the construction of the 15th-century castle, which was added to the eastern side of the tower and inside which visitors can admire an important series of profane frescoes in the courtly Gothic style.

Another remarkable addition three centuries later was the 18-century villa:  completing the 15th-century construction, it formed the first embryo of the park that you will visit.

Completely different from the Italian-style garden created at the time, today Parco Mantegazza (named after one of the last owners before the area was handed over to the municipality of Varese in 1981) is a stunning historic garden in a romantic English style, filled with centuries-old trees and important exotic plants.

You can also enjoy a visit to the temporary and permanent exhibitions that are held inside the building, as Castello Castiglioni di Mantegazza has become a Gallery of Contemporary Art.

-

Ph: Vareseturismo.it