Castelli di Cannero Fortress Reopens as Interactive Museum After 15 Million Euro Restoration

On June 28, 2025, the Castelli di Cannero fortress, situated on Lake Maggiore, will welcome visitors following a restoration costing 15 million euros, supported by the Borromeo family, MiC, and Intesa Sanpaolo. The Milan-based studio Dotdotdot has transformed the 16th-century Rocca Vitaliana into an engaging museum, complete with audio guides, augmented reality, and immersive soundscapes. Guests can navigate through tunnels and towers, uncovering frescoes and intricate plasterwork. A treasure hunt for children and multilingual content in Italian, English, French, and German enhance the experience. Constructed between 1519 and 1526 by Count Ludovico Borromeo, the fortress has historical significance, including serving as a refuge for Giuseppe Garibaldi in 1848. Admission is 25 euros, which includes a boat ride from Cannero Riviera.