Castelgrande

The main features of interest in Bellinzona are the three castles. The oldest Castelgrande, (known in the 14th C. as Castel Magnum, in the 17th C. as Burg Uri or Altdorf and in 1818 as San Michele), was constructed above a Roman castle. The Torre Bianca (27 m/89ft) and the square Torre Negra 28 m/91ft) form the most ancient part of the five defenses. Situated 50 m/164ft above the town the castle boasts wonderful views.

Castelgrande contains an archaeological museum and a museum of arts.