Brescia  Castle​

Latest page update: 12 January 2025
By: Dion Protani
The impressive Brescia Castle in Lombardy stands in an imperious position, overlooking the city of Brescia. Originally constructed in the 13th century, it's one of the major sights in the city.

​From the castle grounds you can look down on to  the rooftops of Brescia and pick its other sights which include the Museo di Santa Giulia and an eclectic panoply of architecture from different eras. 
Related links
Profile
Brescia Castle, also known as Castello di Brescia, is a historic fortress located in the city of Brescia, Lombardy, in northern Italy. The castle's origins can be traced back to the Roman era, when a fortification known as Castrum Brixiae was built on the hill of Cidneo to defend the city.

Over the centuries, the castle underwent numerous expansions and renovations under different rulers, including the Lombards, the Visconti, and the Venetians.

​During the Middle Ages, Brescia Castle played a crucial role in the defense of the city, and it later served as a military outpost during the Venetian rule. Today, the castle stands as a testament to Brescia's rich historical past and offers visitors a glimpse into the city's military and architectural heritage.
Key features and nearby attractions
  • Overview: Brescia Castle is an imposing structure that dominates the skyline of the city and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Architecture: The castle features a mix of architectural styles, reflecting the various periods of its construction. The original Roman foundations can still be seen in some parts of the fortress. The castle's walls, towers, and battlements are characteristic of medieval military architecture.
  • Fortress Complex: The castle is a vast complex, encompassing several courtyards, towers, and underground passages. Its strategic location on a hill provides a vantage point for defending the city and observing potential threats from afar.
  • Museo delle Armi Luigi Marzoli: Within the castle complex is the Museo delle Armi Luigi Marzoli, a museum dedicated to arms and armor. The museum houses an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance weaponry, armor, and military artifacts.​
  • The Tower of San Marco: One of the most notable features of the castle is the Tower of San Marco, which offers breathtaking views of Brescia and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower and enjoy a panoramic vista of the city below.
Visitor information
  • Location: Brescia Castle is located on the hill of Cidneo, just a short distance from the historic center of Brescia. It is easily reachable on foot or by public transportation.
  • Visiting Hours: The castle is open to the public, and visiting hours vary according to the season. It is advisable to check the opening hours before planning a visit.
  • Entrance Fee: There is usually an admission fee to enter the castle and the Museo delle Armi Luigi Marzoli. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups.
  • Guided Tours: Guided tours of the castle and the museum are available, providing visitors with fascinating insights into the fortress's history and its military significance.
  • Accessibility: The castle may have some steep and uneven pathways, so visitors with mobility issues are advised to plan their visit accordingly.
  • Nearby Attractions: After exploring Brescia Castle, visitors can explore other attractions in the city, such as the Duomo Nuovo, the Roman Forum, and the Santa Giulia Museum.
Castello di Brescia
City: Brescia

Province: Brescia

Region: Lombardy

Established: 13th century

Close by: Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Salò, Desenzano del Garda

Recommended accommodation: Centro Paolo VI

Brescia  Castle​  Gallery

SITE SEARCH

If you want to find a page quickly and you're not sure where to look you can use the Site Search box below and it'll point you in the right direction. 

YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO ITALY

Italy Review is an independent guide to Italy, showcasing the very best that the country has to offer. Throughout the four thousand pages of the website you'll find comprehensive tourist information, opinion and original photos.

​Alongside the major tourist destinations that you've already heard of, there are thousands of others that may come as a surprise with the intention of the website to provide inspiration for your future trips to the country. 

The photos and descriptions on the website are all my own work and are the fruit of my extensive travels around the country. I've visited every place that's listed on the website which means I'm able to give useful advice for first-time visitors. 

​You can keep in touch with the latest developments in Italy via  my Facebook and Instagram pages. 

If you'd just like to start your exploration of Italy with some ideas of places to go then I'd recommend starting at the highlighted must see Italy page.  Or using the grid to your right you can click a photo to enter  the main menus.                 
Booking.com

THE ITALY REVIEW NETWORK SISTER SITES:

​All photos and images on the site that are marked with the © copyright symbol or with the Italy Review series logos are the property of Italy Review and must not be used elsewhere without prior permission. All written content on the website is also the property of Italy Review and its use is strictly limited to this website alone.