Secret Tales of Scaliger Castle Sirmione Lake Garda

The name Sinking Castle of Italy piqued our interest! A search in Google map directed us to location of Scaliger Castle 46.4 km west of Castelvecchio Verona. No way could we give this unique castle a miss during our 21 days road trip through northern Italy. Read on to know the history and highlights of the castle, why some believe that Scaliger Castle is haunted and the interesting things to do around Scaliger Castle Sirmione Italy.

After leaving beautiful Verona driving westwards towards the next destination Lucerne, Switzerland we paused at Lake Garda, the largest Lake of Italy. And what a charming sight we got to see there! I could spend the entire day at the shores of Lake Garda, but the plans were different.

Admire the breathtaking view of Scaliger Castle’s tower against the azure waters of Lake Garda

Scaliger (sinking) Castle Sirmione

Before I delve into the history of Castello Scaligero let me explain How Scaliger Castle got the name sinking castle.

The Castello Scaligero (Scaliger Castle) in Sirmione is an unusual unique example of lakeside port fortification. Due to its unique and intriguing architectural feature the castle appears to be partially submerged in the water, giving it the illusion of sinking into Lake Garda. The castle was originally built on a rocky outcrop that was closer to the water’s edge. However, as the water level of Lake Garda changed over time, the surrounding area sank, causing the castle to appear partially submerged.

The castle is one of the most spectacular and best-preserved Scaliger fortresses and the sinking effect adds to the castle’s charm and making it a popular tourist attraction in Sirmione, Italy.

Sirmione Peninsula lined with merlons

How to reach Scaliger Castle Sirmione

Getting to Scaliger Castle would need some planning because you are not allowed to drive into Sirmione city unless you are staying at a hotel in the city. We had to park our car outside the entrance to the town and walk along the shores of the long peninsula.

It can take anywhere between 10 to 30 minutes walk to Scaliger Castle depending on where you get parking space. The trick is to arrive early and avoid weekends. We had to walk along the short stretch of the peninsula and it is during the walk I fell in love with Lake Garda. The castle has a fairy tale location!

Collect all information and maps you will need at the tourist information kiosk located right before the bridge to Sirmione.

If you are arriving by train to Peschiera, take a bus or taxi into Sirmione.

Peninsula view of town

Scaliger Castle stands proudly on the shores of Lake Garda

The Rocca Scaligera Castel at the base of the peninsula was a sight to behold. Standing tall, strong and mighty, the castle of 13th century looked so inviting. We were soon inside exploring the interiors, the towers, walking along the high walls devouring the scenic beauty of the lake from the Castle towers.

Step back in time as you wander through the historic halls of Scaliger Castle

History of Scaliger Castle

Scaliger castle was built in the 13^th century and was a port fortification used widely by the fleet of the Scaliger family. They got control of the castle in first half of 13^th century. Some records mention the castle was founded by Mastino I della Scala. Sirmione was part of the Republic of Venice from the year 1405 till 1797. For a brief spell till 1888 it was acquired by Austria after which it again became part of Unified Italy.

The northern tip of the peninsula in the pic below where the Roman poet Catullus(84BC) once lived. The ruins of the Grotte di Catullo, his villa, lie among the olive trees here. How I wished then to have enough time to take a walk along the lakeside, along the shores of the peninsula!

Scaliger Castle standing proudly on the shores of Lake Garda

Architecture of Castello Scaligero Sirmione

Exploring this magnificent fortress was like walking through a fairy tale. Not only stands proudly within the lake, but it also boasts a moat complete with two enchanting drawbridges, invoking images of knights and epic battles from a bygone era.

We were in for more time travel to past as we crossed the drawbridges and entered the castle. The castle’s walls seemed to whisper stories of a rich history, and within its confines, we had the freedom to explore and unleash our imagination that brought childhood dreams of fairytales to life.

While the beauty of the castle is apparent on the ground floor, it is from the dizzying heights of the tower that its true splendor unfolds. If you are fit enough ascend 150 steps and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Garda and the charming city of Sirmione. It becomes clear why the mighty Scaliger family and their fleet were so fiercely dedicated to safeguarding this castle and the precious city it watches over!

For a modest fee of just €6 per person, visitors are granted the privilege of wandering through the castle grounds. Definitely worth a visit if you are anywhere near Sirmione in Italy, I will say. Once a symbol of power and protection, today it is a captivating landmark that beckons tourists from near and far!

Scaliger Castle Sirmione Peninsula Interiors

Interesting Features of Scaliger Castle

• Scaliger Castle had a very complex defense system. Have a look at the moat around. It is strong though today it is home to carp, ducks and swans.
• As you enter you are surrounded by 4 huge walls giving a feel of being enclosed in a fortress.
• The walls are plain devoid of any huge decorations. The rocks and pebbles used clearly visible.
• Tall main tower was used for attacking the enemies trapped below.
• A well planned inner harbor was a safe anchoring space during storms.
• The drawbridge linking the castle to the mainland was the escape route for the inhabitants.
• 150 steps take you up to the ramparts and the tower. Thankfully it is open to public for viewing.
• It is sort of magical walking along the walkways with swallowtail merlons that surround the entire structure.

Discover the fascinating medieval architecture of Scaliger Castle

The Scaligeri rulers fought amongst themselves for riches and power, but they did provide peace and prosperity to the region and fended off attacks by the Visconti family who ruled the neighboring Lombardy. My knowledge of History of Italy was getting better!

Secret Haunting Tales of Scaliger Castle

What is a castle if it does not have one spooky secret tale associated with it! Here is why Scaliger Castle believed to be haunted:

Two lovers, Ebengardo and his beloved Arice lived in the fortress, until their love was interrupted. On a rainy, windy night, the knight Elaberto knocked on their door asking for hospitality. Arice was a beautiful woman and the guest fell in love at first sight. He thought about her all night until he decided to go to her room. Frightened, she screamed and tried to escape.

Elaberto, however, couldn’t stand her running away and took a dagger and killed her. Hearing the screams of his beloved, Ebengardo ran to her aid, but came too late. Full of rage, he killed the knight after a violent struggle. According to the legend, even today, the spirit of Ebengardo roams the Castle in search of his beautiful Arice.

Scaliger Castle Sirmione Peninsula walls

Visitor Tips and Information for Castello Scaligero

Address: P.za Castello, 34, 25019 Sirmione BS, Italy
Coordinates: 45.49818750461943, 10.606899871399522
Timings: Mondays closed. Tue to Sat – 8.30 AM to 7.15 PM. Sunday – 8.30 AM to 1.30 PM
Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the ticket office or online. Entrance ticket to the fortress is 6 Euros for tourists, 3 Euros from 18 to 25 years for EU citizens. Admission is free for visiting students and teaching staff, and for EU children and young people under 18.
Estimated Tour Time: Tow hours of tour time will be sufficient.

Parting Thoughts

Parting pangs set in as we moved to the parking slot. The visit to Scaliger Castle in Sirmione is an experience that had a perfect blend of history, architecture, mystery and natural beauty. The tower offers magnificent views of Lake Garda and the city of Sirmione, showcasing why this castle was so vital to the Scaliger family’s protection. The visit was worth the time we set aside to step into the past and embrace the magic of this remarkable landmark.

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