Exhibition Centre
Torre Viscontea
includedSet among the elegant palaces in the city's central square, it was built during the 14th century on the initiative of the powerful Milanese Visconti family as a lookout tower over the territory. Today the tower is a venue for temporary exhibitions.
The Torre Viscontea is the only part of the fortifications of Visconti origin that survived intact the demolitions decreed at the end of the 18th century. The triangular-shaped fortified village was completely surrounded by defensive walls from the time of Azzone Visconti.
The actual castle in the 17th century housed the Spanish garrison mentioned by Alessandro Manzoni in I Promessi Sposi (The Betrothed) and occupied an area of about 1,200 square metres.
In 1782, as part of the reforms desired by Emperor Joseph II, the military stronghold of Lecco was abolished, allowing the urban development of the centre and the castle was sold to private owners. Today, only the 14th-century tower remains of the Visconti castle following the urban and industrial development of the city. On the ground floor, the living quarters of the guardhouse and some stone cannon balls are still visible. The first floor has been renovated and used as a space for temporary exhibitions, organised by Si.M.U.L in cooperation with local organisations and associations.
Digital Assistant