Symbol of the proud independence of Riviera di San Giulio
The Buccione Tower or Castle stands on the hill of the same name overlooking Lake Orta in a splendid panoramic position.
It is a construction of squared stone blocks that rises to a height of 23 metres, divided into five floors and culminating in a covered crenellated cell.
The keep with the walled forecourt is the last bastion of a larger structure, first mentioned in a document in 1200. Probably built by the Counts da Castello, it was later owned by the bishops of Novara.
A belfry was added to the top of the tower in the 14th century, in which a bell was placed to warn of dangers. At its sound, the inhabitants of the Riviera had to rush to the rescue.
The hill, which is a Nature Reserve protected by the Ticino and Lake Maggiore Protected Areas Management Authority, can be reached by car to the car park in the municipality of Gozzano (then a 10-minute walk) or by hiking trails from Orta San Giulio and Bolzano Novarese.
The tower is always accessible from the outside and in the summer periodic guided tours of its interior are organised (booking required)
