Lake Maggiore is gaining a new cultural landmark: the majestic Castles of Cannero – ancient fortresses resting on the water – will finally be accessible to visitors after restoration work that began in 2019.

The history of the complex dates back to the Middle Ages, when it served as a refuge for the Mazzarditi brothers, bandits from the nearby town of Cannobio.
Later, after the Borromeo family acquired the fiefdom of Cannobio and the Cannero Islands, Ludovico Borromeo had a new fortress built in 1519, called "Vitaliana."
However, after his death, the complex was abandoned due to its proximity to the shore, which made it difficult to defend.

Ph: ViviVerbania