© R. Kerdzierski
© Lombardia da Vedere
© Wikipedia
© Isole Borromee
Rocca Borromeo Castle, Angera
Medieval fortress belonging to the Borromeo family
The fortified castle of Borromeo sits on a rocky outcrop overlooking the town of Angera and is one of the best-preserved castles in the region. There are spectacular views of Lake Maggiore and across to the Alps, meaning it was an important strategic location.
The original castle dates back to the 11th century and its five remaining buildings dating from subsequent periods to the 17th century are in excellent condition. It fell into the hands of the Borromeo family in the 15th century, who made it a key feature of their defensive system.
There are some stunning 13th-century frescoes in the Sala di Giustizia. They were made at the time when the Visconti the castle and they depict his success at the battle of Desio in 1227, as well as Zodiac signs.
The castle is also home to an extensive Dolls & Toys Museum, which showcases more than a thousand objects dating back from the 18th century to our days. You can also visit the medieval gardens, restored according to old codices and manuscripts.
Worth knowing
There are audio tour guides available in English, Italian, French and German for 5€.
Visitor comments
- "If you like castles and you are visiting Milan or Lake Maggiore in Italy this is a must see. It is a magical place that is fun for kids and adults. Not hard to get to from Milan and worth a day trip or a one night stay." - Trip Advisor
- "Not only is the fortress itself quite amazing with views from the very top out over Lago Maggiore to the mountains, but the doll and toy museum will delight both young and old. You need at least three hours to do justice to this site. Children will be delighted with all there is to see." - Trip Advisor
- "We spent a morning wandering through the Rocca - the doll museum is truly amazing (give yourself lots of time here if you are at all interested in dolls through the ages).The grounds are lovely and the views are amazing." - Trip Advisor
When to come
Open every day from mid March to mid October, from 09:00 to 17:30.
How to get passes
Tickets cost 9.50€, reduced to 6€ for children 6 to 15 years of age and 8€ for groups of 18 people or more. You can also buy a ticket to access Rocca Borromeo, Isola Bella and Isola Madre for 24€, valid for two days.
