The Rocca of Lonato is a 10th-century fortress that looms over the city and the southern end of Lake Garda. Explore the medieval interior and its surviving structures and visit the castle’s museum of birds.
The irregular shaped stronghold sits on a hill and contains two principle areas. The General Quarters are on the lower level, while the Rocchetta occupies the upper part.
Enter the fortress via its southern side. Before going in, observe the bastion to the right of the main entrance. On top of this brick built structure is a series of grooves, evidence of where guns used to be placed.
Inside the Rocca, find the remains of barracks that used to house troops. You will also see the remnants of a sighting post on this level. Walk along the ramparts and enjoy views of Lake Garda, then go through the doorway that leads to the Rocchetta.
At the top of the castle complex is the former home of the head of the fortress, but today it houses the Ornithological Museum. Browse its collection of stuffed birds, which includes specimens that are more than 100 years old. There are four rooms containing examples of woodland, wetlands and high mountain birds as well as those that winter on Lake Garda.
At the back of the house is a cistern that used to collected rainwater. Nearby is a long staircase that leads to the fort's outer base, where a number of human skeletons were found in the early 19th century.
The fortress and the museum of birds are open every day throughout July and August, and on weekends at other times of the year. Admission charges apply with discounts for children under 12 years of age. Savings can be made if you purchase a combined ticket that includes the nearby House of the Podestà.
The fortress is situated in Lonato’s historic district, within easy walking distance of other important landmarks, including the Cathedral of San Giovanni Battista and the House of the Podestà.
