Malcesine and Its Scaliger castle
Malcesine is a picturesque town located on the eastern shore of Lake Garda in Northern Italy. Its history dates back to Roman times, when it was a small fishing village called Maclesium. Over the centuries, Malcesine has been ruled by various groups, including the Goths, the Lombards, and the Venetians.
One of the most prominent landmarks in Malcesine is its castle, which has a long and fascinating history. The castle dates back to the 6th century, when it was built by the Lombards as a defensive fortress. Over the centuries, it was expanded and renovated several times, with different rulers leaving their mark on the structure.
One of the most significant events in the castle’s history occurred in the 14th century, when it was the site of a famous battle between the Venetians and the Veronese. The Venetians, who controlled Malcesine at the time, successfully defended the castle against the Veronese army, which was trying to seize control of the town.
The castle also played a role in the famous love story of Romeo and Juliet. According to local legend, the castle was the inspiration for the balcony scene in Shakespeare’s play, and visitors can still see the balcony today.
Today, the castle is a popular tourist attraction, and visitors can explore its many rooms and enjoy stunning views of Lake Garda from the top of its towers. It also houses a museum that showcases the history and culture of the region.