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| A spectacular and imposing Castle
(covering an area of 16.500 mq.) dominates the Val Lagarina between Trento
and Rovereto : Castel Beseno.
This Castle was built as a strong point to control river and road trffic along the valley, and is a fine example of a typical Alpine fortress. The structure, following the crest of the hill and protected by three bastions, still clearly witness the feudal style of life there ( a jousting field, armouries, workshops, cellars, a portcullis gate and baking ovens are all to be seen) so that Castel Beseno today is striking of medieval history and life. The known history of the Castel dates from the twelfth century when it was controlled by the Lords of Beseno, then passing to the Castelbarco family at the end of the thirteenth century. In 1470, the house of Trapp grouped the three original medieval nuclei into a single structure. Later the site witnessed many historical events and was the scene of famous battles ( Napoleon and the Austrians in 1813 ). Lastly, in the recent seventies, the Autonomous Province of Trento provided for conservation and restauration of the Castle, ensuring its continuing existence as an integral part of the history, heritage and culture of Trentino. Tiziana Ciaghi  |
