These days, Castello Visconti houses an archaeological museum with a collection of valuable vases and hand-blown glass goblets. Next to it is the Rivellino, a former defensive bastion. According to some historical documents and more recent studies, this is said to be the work of the great master Leonardo da Vinci.
After expanding their sphere of influence to Lake Maggiore during the 13th century, the Milanese Visconti family had a castle built here. The powerful family decided to extend an existing fortress, the origins of which can be traced back to the year 998.
In 1513, the Viscontis were finally driven out of the area. They were succeeded by federal bailiffs, who enforced their own laws here for the next 300 years. But these also lost their position of power after the Helvetic Republic was established.
Although the Castello Visconteo was destroyed several times over the centuries and then rebuilt, it has never lost its reputation as one of the most important buildings in
Locarno.
Opening hours:
From 16.3.2024
Tuesday-Friday: 10:00 - 16:30
Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 10:00 - 16:30
Monday: closed
Prices:
Adults CHF 15.00
AVS-AI, groups (min. 10 persons) CHF 10.00
Students from 18 years (with student card): CHF 8.00
Virtual Reality: CHF 5.00
Schools, children up to 18 years, Raiffeisen Card, Museum Pass, ICOM/AMS, VKKS, Associazione Amici di Casa Rusca: free entrance
App my Ascona-Locarno, Ticino Ticket, Cultural Pass Ascona-Locarno: discount
Guided tours: by appointment CHF 150.- (min. 10 p.) + admission CHF 10.- pp.
Combined Ticket Museums Casorella + Castle + Casa Rusca:
adults CHF 20.00
AVS-AI, groups (min. 10 persons): CHF 14.00
Students from 18 years (with student card): CHF 12.00
Guided tours: groups (min. 10 persons) CHF 5.00 p.p. (+ 100.00 each group)
