Top 20 Castles in Bergamo
Castles in Bergamo offer a rich historical experience across the city and its province. The region features a diverse landscape, from the plains to the hills, providing varied settings for these historical castles. Many of these structures, including fortified residences and defensive strongholds, reflect centuries of local history. Exploring these sites provides insight into the area's past.
Best castles in Bergamo
- The most popular castles is Malpaga Castle, a castle that served as the headquarters of Bartolomeo Colleoni. It is a well-preserved historical site located in the Cavernago countryside.
- Another must-see spot is Castello di Pagazzano, a castle known as a gem of the Bergamo plain. This Visconti castle is perfectly preserved and surrounded by a defensive moat fed by water.
- Visitors also love San Vigilio Castle, a castle offering panoramic views over the city and the Bergamo hills. It is the fortification located at the highest point on the Bergamo Hills, dominating the entire territory.
- Bergamo is known for its historical castles, fortified residences, and defensive strongholds. The region offers a variety of castles to see and explore, from those in the city to those scattered across the province.
- The castles in Bergamo are appreciated by the komoot community. The guide features 27 highlights with 171 photos and has received 266 upvotes.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Malpaga Castle
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San Vigilio Castle
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Trebecco Castle
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Terzi Castle, Monasterolo del Castello
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According to some historians, the monastery was destroyed during the wars between Charlemagne, king of the Franks, and Desiderio, the last Lombard king, and was never rebuilt.
The castle of Monasterolo, together with Bianzano and Mologno, was part of a medieval defensive system, even if it probably stood on the ruins of a previous fortification. However, the first reliable news of its existence dates back to 990.
In the second half of the 13th century the castle belonged to the powerful Ghibelline Suardi family who made it only for military use.
In the 16th century, with the updating to the new Renaissance style, the building was used as a residence and therefore refined.
Towards the end of 1700 the castle lost its importance as a fortress-residence and rapidly declined. The building, transformed into a rustic house, became a ruined ruin in the best possible way and fell into oblivion.
Only in the years 1937-1939 was the fortress completely renovated by a new owner: Countess Winifred Terni de 'Gregorj Taylor.
Currently the castle of Monasterolo would be owned by the heirs of the countess Ginevra Terni.
Intended use: location for weddings and receptions.
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Castello di Pagazzano
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View of Bergamo's Città Alta from San Vigilio Castle
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Castello Camozzi Vertova
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It was erected by Emperor Otto I (962) but after the final defeat of Barbarossa in the battle of Legnano (1176), the properties were assigned by the Municipality of Bergamo, to the most faithful families of the captains, the Albertoni de Vertua (Vertova), the Rogerio de Scalve and the noble Del Zoppo family of Bergamo.
Around 1160 Albertus Albertoni de Vertua defended Bergamo in the war against the Barbarossa (league of Pontida) on the site of the ancient fortress.
Alberto de Vertua, who also participated in the peace of Constance (1183), was awarded, and with him the descendants, the domain of the castle, becoming the progenitor of the Vertova Counts, then Camozzi Vertova, who inherited the property.
In the period of the Lordships, the castle fulfilled its role of defense of the places and the inhabitants and found itself at the center of military events during the wars between Milan and Venice.
After the peace of Lodi (1454), the castle lost its military function and became a Renaissance residence.
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Visconti Fortress of Romano di Lombardia
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Castel Liteggio Fortress
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Later the Castle was transformed into an elegant stately home with a large park.
Castel Liteggio was a truly autonomous village, due to the presence of shops and internal houses, the abundance of water and the facing farmhouses which guaranteed complete autonomy for centuries, at least until the end of the eighteenth century.
Subsequently Giovanni Maironi da Ponte reported Castel Liteggio as a district of the municipality of Cologno al Serio.
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Ginami Castle of Gromo
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Piazza Dante, 2, 24020 Gromo BG
034641102
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Tips from the Community
The Ginami castle or Buccelleni castle is located in the ancient market square then Piazza Dante in Gromo in the upper Seriana valley, it was built in the 13th century by the Buccelleni family for military use as evidenced by the armigerous tower, a symbol of the town. Built on a spur, height or grumo of rock, it will probably be this position that gives the name to the village, which in fact is not mentioned in official documents until the dawn of the 13th century.
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In the 1950s, the painting of Saint Christopher was created to cover new modifications.
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Built in 1226 by the eldest son of the Ginami dei Licini family on a rocky spur overlooking the Serio river, an obligatory transit point. The complex, built as a refuge and family residence, consists of a rectangular central body, two wings, and the central tower that stands out over the square. An elegant courtyard has been created in the space between the two wings; the garden has been laid out on several levels, separated by stone walls and connected by staircases. The masonry of large, roughly squared blocks remained unchanged until the 16th century when the Venetian Republic imposed the replacement of the small drawbridge with a larger one; the entrance door was also enlarged and now the large round arch portal, which leads into the central courtyard, is clearly visible. There were then further changes that altered the medieval character even inside the building.
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Fortress, stately home, granary, farmhouse, monument. How many other buildings can boast of having survived the centuries, adapting to the passage of time? This is the story of the Visconti Castle of Pagazzano; indeed, different uses and needs make up its history. There are still those who remember how, as a child, they accompanied their grandfather to buy seeds inside the castle and even in its very rooms. Here, within its walls, the poet Petrarch stayed as a guest several times. And within its walls, a very young Francesco Bernardino Visconti, known to all as "the Unnamed," grew up, entrusted to his uncle, the archpriest Galeazzo Visconti, in 1595. Today, it hosts conferences, theater and music festivals, sculpture symposia, and educational workshops.
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It's a steep climb up here, no matter which direction you come from. Unfortunately, the gate is still locked early in the morning, and you can't get in.
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beautiful, worth stopping and visiting
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly castles to visit in Bergamo?
Yes, several castles in Bergamo are considered family-friendly. Malpaga Castle, for example, is noted for its well-preserved historical site and is easily reachable. Castello di Pagazzano is another excellent option, known as a gem of the Bergamo plain with its defensive moat.
Which castles offer the best panoramic views in Bergamo?
For breathtaking panoramic views, visit San Vigilio Castle. It is the fortification located at the highest point on the Bergamo Hills, offering expansive views over the city, valleys, and the plain. You can even enter its tower for an elevated perspective.
What kind of historical significance do Bergamo's castles hold?
Bergamo's castles are rich in history, reflecting centuries of local power struggles and noble residences. Many, like the Terzi Castle in Monasterolo del Castello, have origins dating back to the Early Middle Ages, serving as fortified monasteries or defensive strongholds before being transformed into stately homes. They tell stories of families like the Suardi and Visconti.
Are there any castles in Bergamo that are less known or 'hidden gems'?
While not explicitly 'hidden,' some castles offer a more secluded experience. Trebecco Castle is a historical site that provides a glimpse into the region's past away from the more frequented spots. Exploring the province often reveals such less-traveled historical sites.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in Bergamo?
The Bergamo region offers diverse outdoor activities. Near many castles, you can find excellent routes for hiking and cycling. For example, you can explore easy hikes like the 'From Bergamo to the Città Alta - Ring tour' or more challenging mountain hikes. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as 'Cycling through green cycle paths and the upper city of Bergamo'. You can find more details on these activities in the Mountain Hikes in Bergamo, Easy hikes in Bergamo, and Cycling in Bergamo guides.
Are there cafes or refreshment options near Bergamo's castles?
Some castles offer refreshment options. For instance, Malpaga Castle has a small bar for refreshment and rest. For other castles, especially those in more rural settings, it's advisable to check local amenities in nearby villages or bring your own provisions.
What is the best time of year to visit castles in Bergamo?
The best time to visit castles in Bergamo is generally during the spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) months. The weather is pleasant for exploring, and the natural scenery around the castles is particularly beautiful. Summer can be warm, while winter visits are possible but some attractions might have reduced hours or closures.
Can I visit castles in Bergamo during the winter months?
Many castles in Bergamo remain open during winter, though it's always recommended to check their specific opening hours and days in advance, as some may have reduced schedules or temporary closures. The cooler weather can offer a unique, less crowded experience, especially for indoor historical tours.
Are there castles in Bergamo that are suitable for historical tours?
Yes, many castles are ideal for historical tours. The Visconti Fortress of Romano di Lombardia is a significant historical site. Similarly, the Castello Camozzi Vertova and Castel Liteggio Fortress offer deep dives into the region's past. Many provide insights into medieval architecture and the lives of noble families.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in Bergamo?
Visitors frequently appreciate the rich history and well-preserved architecture of Bergamo's castles. The panoramic views from sites like San Vigilio Castle are often highlighted. The unique defensive features, such as the water-fed moat at Castello di Pagazzano, also draw significant interest, offering a tangible connection to the past.
Are there castles in the city of Bergamo itself, or are they mostly in the province?
While the city of Bergamo boasts the impressive San Vigilio Castle with its commanding views, many other significant castles are scattered across the wider Bergamo province. The region offers a diverse range of structures, from fortified residences in the plains to defensive strongholds in the hills, providing varied settings for these historical sites.
Is it possible to find castles that are used for events or weddings in Bergamo?
Yes, some castles in the Bergamo province are utilized as venues for events and weddings. For example, the Terzi Castle in Monasterolo del Castello is currently rented for important events or weddings, offering a historic and picturesque setting for special occasions.
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