Castles around Brebbia offer a glimpse into the historical landscape of the Lombardy region. While Brebbia itself was once home to a medieval castle, its site is now occupied by the Church of Santi Pietro e Paolo, a well-preserved Romanesque building from 1100. The broader area, particularly the province of Varese, features several notable fortified structures. These sites provide insight into the region's past, from defensive strongholds to noble residences.
Last updated: July 27, 2026
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Spectacular view of the city of Arona and Lake Maggiore
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It's a shame that you have to pay for every extra and every nice thing, but that's just the way it is - but of course it's definitely worth it; perhaps you should consider before your trip which sights are so important that you're "happy" to pay for them.
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You should definitely plan enough time to visit the palace, because it is really worth it.
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The Palazzo Borromeo is very impressive. It feels like you've stepped back in time. https://terreborromeo.it/de/palazzo-borromeo
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Once you arrive in Arona, walk along the lakeside and have an ice cream, go up to visit the statue of S. Carlone but... don't forget to visit the Rocca too! Founded in a period shortly before the year 1000 under the control of the Lombards, for four centuries the Rocca remained in the hands of the Borromeo family, giving birth to Cardinal San Carlo Borromeo in 1538; the history of the Rocca di Arona ends in 1800 when the Napoleonic army received the order to destroy some fortifications occupied by the Austrians; from that moment on only a few ruins of the Rocca di Arona remain. From above you can also enjoy a spectacular view of Arona below, of Angera opposite and of this entire stretch of lake!
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The Church of the Purification of the Virgin Mary is the parish church of Massino Visconti in the Province and Diocese of Novara. It is part of the Vergante pastoral unit. The first mention of a Catholic church in Massino dates back to 887. The new church was built in the second half of the 16th century with three naves and was given the title of parish church during the same period, after the Church of San Michele was severely damaged by a landslide. In the first half of the 19th century, the old Romanesque bell tower was demolished and replaced with a new tower. The church's striking, west-facing façade consists of three volumes interrupted by pilasters: the main body, characterized by the main portal, is preceded by a small portico opening into a serliana in the center, while the two side wings have secondary entrances. Attached to the parish church is the stone bell tower with a square floor plan. Its cell has a single-lancet window on each side, protected by a balustrade, and is crowned by a pyramidal spire resting on a drum with an octagonal base. The interior of the building is divided into three naves, overlooking which the side chapels face. Pillars and columns support round arches, above which runs the molded and projecting entablature, upon which the vaults rest. At the end of the hall is the presbytery, raised a few steps, bordered by balustrades and housing the main altar. Several valuable works have been preserved here, including the 16th-century frescoes depicting Saint Mary of the Assumption and the Coronation of Mary, as well as the paintings on the vaults depicting the Doctors of the Church and the symbols of the Evangelists. it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chiesa_della_Purificazione_di_Maria_Vergine_(Massino_Visconti)
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Until 1632, Isola Bella was a rocky outcrop on which a small fishing village stood. Carlo III Borromeo began leveling the rock and building a palace on the island for his wife, Isabella D'Adda. The Palazzo Borromeo and its gardens are a prime example of Baroque art. The palace features salons with views of the lake, numerous paintings by famous artists, precious furniture, marble, neoclassical stucco, ancient sculptures, armor, and Flemish tapestries made of silk with gold thread. The basement contains several shell grottoes with light and dark stone and shell decorations. The gardens are staircased and pyramid-shaped, based on ancient models, and are bordered by balustrades, on which numerous statues of mythological heroes and animals are scattered. Source: Wikipedia
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While Brebbia no longer has a standing medieval castle, its historical site is now home to the Church of Santi Pietro e Paolo. This church, built in 1100, is a national monument and a well-preserved example of Romanesque architecture in the province of Varese.
The Rocca di Angera provides stunning panoramic views of Lake Maggiore. Similarly, the Borromean Fortress of Arona also offers breathtaking vistas from its elevated position.
Yes, several castles are suitable for families. The Rocca di Angera is family-friendly and houses a unique doll museum with over 1,000 pieces. The Shell Grottos of the Palazzo Borromeo, Isola Bella are also considered family-friendly, offering an imaginative experience with their unique design.
The castles in the region showcase a rich history, evolving from defensive strongholds to noble residences. For example, the Visconti Castle of San Vito began as a defensive fortress in the 9th century before being transformed into an elegant country residence. The Rocca di Angera dates back to the 11th century and was once a Visconti fortress.
The Shell Grottos of the Palazzo Borromeo, Isola Bella are particularly unique, featuring six underground halls designed to imitate natural grottos, adorned with mosaics and stucco work. The Isola Bella Palace and Gardens are also notable for their tenfold stepped terrace gardens, decorated with mythological statues and fountains.
While not as widely known as the Borromean sites, the Visconti Castle of San Vito in the Varese area offers a glimpse into a historical transformation from a defensive fortress to a noble residence. Caidate Castle, a 14th-century former hunting lodge in Sumirago, also provides a more intimate historical experience.
The region around Brebbia offers various outdoor activities. You can explore MTB Trails around Brebbia, enjoy Running Trails around Brebbia, or go Cycling around Brebbia. Many routes offer views of the lakes and surrounding landscapes, complementing a castle visit.
For cyclists, routes like the 'Lake Varese cycle path – View of Lake Varese loop from Besozzo' or the 'Ranco Lakeside – Lakeside Promenade of Ispra loop from Besozzo' offer scenic rides. You can find more options in the Cycling around Brebbia guide.
Yes, there are running trails that allow you to experience the natural beauty and historical context of the area. Routes like the 'Quassa Park – Ispra Lakeside Promenade loop from Ispra' offer scenic runs near Lake Maggiore, which is close to several historical sites. More running options are available in the Running Trails around Brebbia guide.
Visitors frequently appreciate the historical depth and architectural beauty of these sites. The stunning views, particularly from locations like Rocca di Angera, are often highlighted. The unique collections, such as the doll museum at Angera or the intricate grottos of Isola Bella, also receive high praise.
The spring and autumn months generally offer pleasant weather for exploring the castles and their surrounding gardens. During these seasons, temperatures are mild, and the natural landscapes are particularly vibrant or beautifully colored. Summer can also be a good time, though it can be warmer and more crowded.
Many of the major castles, especially those on Lake Maggiore like Rocca di Angera and the sites on Isola Bella, are typically accessible via ferry services from lakeside towns, which can be reached by public transport. It's advisable to check specific transport links for each castle you plan to visit.


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