The Scaliger Castle in Sirmione is a fortress dating back to the Scaliger period, single point of access to the historic center of Sirmione. It is one of the most complete and best preserved castles in Italy, as well as a rare example of lakeside fortification. You can't enter the castle without going through the drawbridge; the fortress is in fact bordered on all sides by Lake Garda.

The construction of the fortress began in the mid-thirteenth century, probably on the remains of a Roman fort. Its construction was ordered by the mayor of Verona Leonardino della Scala, better known as Mastino I della Scala.

The function of the castle was of defense and port control, as the town of Sirmione, located in a border position, was more exposed to aggression.

Through doors equipped with effective locking systems, you can access the large porch, within which rises a staircase leading to a drawbridge. From there, via a staircase of 146 steps, you can reach the battlements of the walls, from where you can view the dock.

The dock is defended by towers too, but, unlike those inside the castle battlements, they are not characterized by a dovetail, but by a basic spear-like shape, witnessing a different era of construction.

(source: wikipedia; photos: gb)