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With this presentation, we would like to welcome you to Bellinzona, whose castles and walls are now part of the Unesco World Heritage.
History
Bellinzona is the capital of Ticino and is situated in the heart of this Italian speaking Canton. The friendliness, hospitality and the relaxed way of life of the inhabitants attest to the Italian character of this area. The town nestles within the remains of the original defensive walls and is overlooked by three mighty castles. Its natural location amidst mountains and valleys affords the visitor an opportunity to relax in green and pleasant surroundings. With its beautiful courtyards, elegant 19th c. houses, piazzas, arcades and pavement cafés, Bellinzona was a favourite with such illustrious visitors as the writer John Ruskin and the painter Joseph Turner. The history and art of the area are well documented in the local museums and art galleries, which provide both the scholar and the curious visitor with the chance to make a closer acquaintance with the cultural heritage of the region.
Region
Covering little more than 60 kilometres, this is a region, which has everything. There is so much to discover that the only thing missing is the pyramids! Marvel at the majestic snow-capped peaks and the eternal snows of the north or follow the hiking path which wind their way up and down the thickly forested mountain-sides; soak up the sun or enjoy the shade of palm trees and dream of more exotic climes; sit by crystal clear alpine lakes or by lazy rivers winding their way across the busy valley floor.
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Castles
These fortresses number among the finest examples of medieval fortification architecture in the alpine region. As they appear today, Bellinzona's fortifications, whose origins actually go much further back to a prehistoric settlement on Castelgrande hill, are mainly the result of intensive and complex building activity undertaken by the Dukes of Milan in the 15th century.
Culture
Activities
- Cultural trails
- Scenic trails
Guided Tours
- Castelgrande and Old City
- Castelgrande (including museum) and Old City
- Castelgrande, Montebello Castle, and Old City
- Castle and Old City
- Church and Villa dei Cedri
- Fortini della Fame
- Monte Carasso, San Bernardo, Curzutt
- ''The Iron Path''
Accomodations
- Hotels
- Group accomodations
- Appartments
- Huts & biwaks
- Campings
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