The Castle of San Vigilio: Bergamo’s Strategic Guardian
Vocabulary Focus
- Stronghold: A place that has been fortified so as to protect it against attack.
- Formidable: Inspiring fear or respect through being impressively large, powerful, or intense.
- Funicular: A cable railway, especially one on a steep incline.
- Battlements: Low walls built on top of a castle with gaps through which weapons can be fired.
- Stretches: To extend or spread over an area or distance.
The Castle of San Vigilio: Bergamo’s Strategic Guardian
For those who want to see Bergamo from its highest perspective, a visit to the Castello di San Vigilio is essential. Located at the very top of the hill overlooking the Città Alta, at about 496 meters above sea level, this fortress has served as the city's primary defense for centuries.
A Strategic Stronghold
The history of the castle dates back to the Roman era, but it became a formidable military fortress during the Middle Ages. Its strategic importance was immense because whoever controlled San Vigilio controlled the access to the city. When the Republic of Venice took over Bergamo, they expanded the castle and integrated it into the city's complex defensive system, including the famous Venetian Walls.
The Experience Today
Nowadays, the castle is no longer a place of war, but a peaceful park and a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. To reach it, most visitors take the second funicular—a charming cable car that climbs the steep slope from the Upper Town.
Once you arrive, you can explore the remains of the ancient towers and walk along the panoramic battlements. On a clear day, the effort is rewarded with a stunning view that stretches from the Brembana Valley to the Milanese skyline and the distant Apennine Mountains.
Historical Features
One of the most intriguing parts of the castle is its network of secret underground tunnels. These passages were used by soldiers to move between different parts of the fortifications without being seen by the enemy. Although much of the castle was demolished in the 19th century, the four main towers—named Belvedere, Gardino, Forte, and Pignone—still stand as a testament to Bergamo’s military past.