The castles of Cannero Riviera, known as “Castles of the Malpaga”, emerge from the water not far from the shore, at just about 2 km from the center of town. They stand on two islets which were fortified during the Middle Ages and were used by bandits to commit crimes and wrongdoings and control the tradings with neighbouring Switzerland. Because of the purity of the surrounding water the area has been awarded the Blue Flag.
The complex, as it is preserved today, is built around a central courtyard, on the eastern side of which stands the donjon with two circular towers. To the south is a double courtyard structure with a tower, while to the west is a fourth courtyard housing the residential part.
The entrance to the castle, with its forepart and semicircular tower, is located on the south side of the central courtyard, next to a small building housing a chapel on the ground floor; a second door opens into the west courtyard.
The fortified elements visible today are those of the fortress known as 'Vitaliana' ordered by Ludovico Borromeo and built between 1519 and 1521, on the ruins of a pre-existing tower, known as 'Malpaga'. This had been built in the early 15th century by the five Cannobio brothers Mazzardi, known as 'Mazzarditt', to control the territory through acts of robbery and piracy. For this reason, Malpaga was besieged by the Visconti and razed to the ground in 1414.
After a couple of centuries of use by the Borromeo feudal lords for the military garrison of the upper lake, the castles were abandoned in the 18th century and slowly fell into disrepair. Recovered by the Borromeo family with a skilful restoration that lasted 10 years and was completed in 2025, they now offer an immersive museum that tells their story.
A new adventure on Lake Maggiore!
At the Castelli di Cannero, rooms and corridors are steeped in anecdotes and tales. And now, after 10 years of restoration and five centuries after their construction, the lake fortress emerging from the tranquil waters of Lake Maggiore, facing the towns of Cannero and Cannobio, is finally ready to share them.
Starting from tomorrow June 28th, thanks to the commitment of the Borromeo family, a unique museum experience will restore the Castelli di Cannero to their former splendor. An unforgettable and immersive open-air journey through history - a plunge into the memory of the region, cradled by the breeze and accompanied by the soothing sounds of the Verbano waters.
An ancient voice returns, brought to life through immersive, unobtrusive technology—hidden to the eye, yet deeply engaging.
Like an audiobook, meant to be heard while walking through the deep blue of this magical place.
Credits © Marco Benedetto Cerini
