Description of the attraction
The Scaliger Castle is a powerful fortress in the town of Sirmione, surrounded by the waters of Lake Garda and built in the second half of the 12th - early 13th century as part of the defenses around Verona to defend against attacks from Milan. Later, the castle became part of the Venetian Republic and was used to control its "mainland" population. After another fortress was built near the town of Peschiera, Rocca Scalighera lost its significance and was turned into a warehouse for a long time. Only at the beginning of the 20th century did it become the property of the Italian government.
Today, this fairytale castle, open to the public, rises above the resort of Sirimone: it is surrounded by a moat, which is "patrolled" by swans and wild ducks. The castle is located in a strategically important place - from land it was possible to get to it only from one side. Even today, you can get into it only by a suspension bridge. Unfortunately, little has survived from the interior of the castle, and its territory has not reached us in its original form - inside you can only admire the unique medieval rampart and views of Lake Garda. Two towers crowned with battlements make an indelible impression - they are a real symbol of the power of the great Mastino della Scala I, during whose reign the first phase of the construction of the castle began. In addition to them, the main courtyard with another tower, three corner guard towers and two entrances have been preserved. A later secondary courtyard was laid out south of the main one, as was the small southern gate.
I must say that along the shores of Lake Garda, several more castles were built, similar to Rocca Scaliger and erected with the same defensive purpose. But, perhaps, it is the Scaliger castle that can be called one of the best preserved in Italy.
