Three Castles, Defensive Wall and Ramparts of the Market-Town of Bellinzona

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The Fortified Town of Bellinzona: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Three Castles, Defensive Wall, and Ramparts of the Market-Town of Bellinzona, situated in the heart of the Swiss canton of Ticino, stand as a testament to the region's rich history and strategic importance. Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000, this fortified town offers a unique blend of medieval architecture and natural beauty.

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UNESCO Description of the World Heritage Site

The Bellinzona site consists of a group of fortifications grouped around the castle of Castelgrande, which stands on a rocky peak looking out over the entire Ticino valley. Running from the castle, a series of fortified walls protect the ancient town and block the passage through the valley. A second castle (Montebello) forms an integral part of the fortifications, while a third but separate castle (Sasso Corbaro) was built on an isolated rocky promontory south-east of the other fortifications.

UNESCO Justification of the World Heritage Site

Criterion (iv): The fortified ensemble of Bellinzona is an outstanding example of a late medieval defensive structure guarding a key strategic Alpine pass.

Encyclopedia Record: Castles of Bellinzona

The Castles of Bellinzona are a group of fortifications located around the town of Bellinzona, the capital of the Swiss canton of Ticino. Situated on the Alpine foothills, the group is composed of fortified walls and three castles named Castelgrande, Montebello and Sasso Corbaro. Castelgrande is located on a rocky peak overlooking the valley, with a series of walls that protect the old city and connect to Montebello. Sasso Corbaro, the highest of the three castles, is located on an isolated rocky promontory south-east of the other two. The Castles of Bellinzona with their defensive walls have been an UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000.

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