Castles of Bellinzona v.2.0 (Ticino, Switzerland)

The castles of Bellinzona are one of Ticino's main attractions and, with the old walls that are still standing, are the sole medieval military complex in the Alpine region. They became part of the UNESCO World Heritage in 2000. A visit to the castles, also connected by a tourist train, is like diving into history: an excursion enjoyed by all ages thanks to the splendor of the fortifications with their high towers and crenulated walls. Of interest is also the walk inside Bellinzona's historic centre, especially on Saturdays, when you can see the local market. Audio guides are also available. Bellinzona's strategic position at the crossroads of the alpine routes connecting the North to the South (Gotthard, Lukmanier, San Bernardino, Nufenen) is the reason why around the year 400 an important defensive project with three castles, towers and city walls was built. The Dukes of Milan were the ones to block the valley of the River Ticino. It was meant to impede the Swiss Confederates from gaining ground in the South. This passage, at the valley's narrowing point, is the only access to the North.