Vicenza: A Tour through the Castles of Love

Vicenza is not only the natural cradle that shelters the famous Palladian Villas. Long before the genius of the Venetian architect, the entire territory was characterized by the construction of enchanting castles and fortresses, each carrying its own tales — of legendary families, tragic loves, and even mysterious legends. Through this Tour of the Castles, InItaly has chosen for future visitors the most fascinating and evocative destinations in the Vicenza area.

Castello della Villa – The Castle of Romeo

Few people know that the tragic love story of Romeo and Juliet did not originally arise in Verona, but right here in the Vicenza territory.

We are in Montecchio Maggiore, where Luigi da Porto was completing his Historia novellamente ritrovata. As he gazed upon the Rocca della Villa and the Rocca della Bellaguardia, he was inspired by the architectural opposition between the two fortresses — an image that became the foundation for the conflict between the lovers’ families. From this literary seed, Shakespeare would later draw inspiration for his world-famous tragedy set in Verona.

According to legend, the Castle of Romeo, inhabited by the Capulets, stands at 234 meters above sea level and has seen the rule of prominent dynasties — from the Scaligeri to the Visconti, and later the Venetian Republic. Composed of two high towers, the fortress offers a breathtaking panorama that stretches all the way to the Venetian Lagoon. Today, it hosts prestigious cultural and artistic events.

Castello della Bellaguardia – The Castle of Juliet

The second stop on this Castle Tour is the Castello della Bellaguardia, better known as the Castle of Juliet.

According to the same legend, this fortress was the residence of the Montecchi family and shared a similar fate with the castle of “her beloved.” Today, it houses a charming restaurant, where the story of Romeo and Juliet is re-imagined through cuisine — a dialogue between taste and emotion, guided by the chefs of “I Castelli di Romeo e Giulietta.” Here, diners experience a perfect union of flavor and romance, in a setting that celebrates one of Italy’s most poetic legends.

A must-see stop for anyone wishing to discover a more unusual and romantic Vicenza.

Castello di Arzignano

Another particularly fascinating destination is the Castle of Arzignano.

This impressive medieval fortress was designed to connect the noble Arzignano family’s village with their defensive stronghold. Dominating the Church of Santa Maria, the castle embodies both historical grandeur and natural beauty. Visitors can experience a true immersion into medieval life and customs, as well as enjoy a scenic walk leading up to the Scaligera Fortress and its mighty towers, from which the entire Vicenza plain unfolds.

After restoration work carried out for the Jubilee of 2000, the castle is open to the public Monday to Friday (5:00–7:00 p.m.) and Saturday (10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.).

For more information: www.prolocoarzignano.it

Castello di Marostica

The final stop of the tour is the Castle of Marostica.

In reality, the site includes two castles, the Upper and the Lower, linked by an 1,800-meter wall that winds along the hill. Standing proudly along the ancient “Wool Road,” the castle has dominated the Venetian foothills for centuries.

Originally built around the year 1000, the fortress underwent major transformations under Cangrande della Scala after the Scaligeri conquest in 1311. With the rise of the Republic of Venice in the 15th century, it lost its military importance and became a commercial and agricultural center.

Of great interest is the Living Chess Game, held every September, which reenacts a romantic legend from 1454. Two knights, Rinaldo D’Angarano and Vieri da Vallonara, fell in love with Lionora, daughter of Lord Taddeo Parisio. To avoid a bloody duel, her father decreed that Lionora would marry the winner of a chess match, while the loser would wed her younger sister, Oldrada.

Even today, this spectacular event is performed with actors in medieval costumes, among banners, jesters, knights, and ladies, filling the Piazza di Marostica with the magic of a timeless love story.

A truly unique experience and a perfect conclusion to this enchanting Vicenza tour.

Why choose this Castle Tour when visiting Veneto?

Because it offers the perfect blend of history, nature, tradition, and love — a journey that captures the very essence of Vicenza, where every fortress tells a story of passion that has survived the centuries.

Cover photo credits: InItaly / Turismo Vicenza