Visconti Castle - Locarno

Close to Piazza Grande you will find the old Visconti Castle, a fortress that had military purposes until 1513. The castle was built by the Visconti family in the 13th century, with its design attributed to the famous Leonardo da Vinci. Part of the fortress is still standing and is known as Rivellino. Mooring rings are visible in some of the remaining walls, as the castle once sat on the shores of lake Verbano. Legend has it that a beggar once sought refuge within the castle and that, after being treated poorly by the owners, she came back to haunt them and her vengeful spirit still roams the ruins to this day. Currently, the Visconti Castle is home to the Archaeological and Civic Museum of Locarno, known for its collection of Roman glass.