In Via Piella is the Govese Gate or Tower of Piella. Built late 12th century, it was part of the second line of defence of the ancient city of Bologna. On one side is a 1600s painting of the Virgin by Francesco Brizio unfortunately badly damaged by time but still evident. It was recently restored in honour of Ada Masotti.

Castello di Dozza or Caterina’s Fortress – Sforza Fort. Erected in Dark Ages then rebuilt by Sforza family in the 1500s. Tour around the rooms with art work from 1500s, antique furniture and armoury on display.

Municipality & Estense Castle is the local government seat leading to the immense Estense Castle surrounded by a large moat, draw bridges and historic sights not to be missed.

Buonconsiglio Castle shown here from a external view only from one side of the 13th century castle in the center of Trento. An Austrian barracks at one time, jail, HQ of the Bishopric of Trent, and now National Museum.

Tenno Castle + Frapporta
Originally the seat of the Bishop’s representative for centuries but soon fell to ruin after General Vendome’s troops lay siege to it. Inside is the medieval village called Frapporta, still thriving today. A must see particularly for the pick-nick table with one of the most spectacular views ever.

A castle or fortress was built here in 1199 but remodelled various times by occupying militia. This 14th century tower with a clock and bells are really all that remain. Currently it’s used for art exhibitions, concerts and conferences. There’s interesting art detail under one of the arches although it’s in need of restoring.

Castello di Stenico belonged to the Bishop of Trento 13th century. It was a strategic building militaristically and politically. Austrians owned it in 19th century. Chapel remains traced to 8th century. Frescoes, frieze’s and paintings are renaissance style. Not to be missed.

Castello Sforzesco is a 14th century castle in the center of Milan. Current restoration works only prohibit a small amount of external sight-seeing but there’s plenty more to see inside (not shown here). Considered one of the most revered courts in Renaissance Italy and eventually saved from demolition thanks to Luca Beltrami.

A 14th century castle with a huge fortified tower. It’s mainly in ruins but still commands an impressive air of expectancy due to the incredible vistas over the Valle di Non, the Brenta Massif and the Paganella. Tirsone of Altenspaur was responsible for this building which guarded over local roads. The Saracini family rebuilt it to original plans.

This Civic Tower was built 1892-1893 by an engineer from Faenza called Giuseppe Tramontani in a neo-gothic style. An iron sculpture of Michael the Archangel at the top guards over the village below.