Martinengo Castle

Martinengo castle, dominating the gulf of Sensole, is one of the most characteristic monuments of the Monte Isola island.

The tower was probably built already in the 12th-13th centuries, around which the Oldofredi family from Iseo built the current structure during the 14th century. The quadrangular enclosure shows the sharp corners in the curtain wall towards the lake, naturally protected by the rocky wall, while the corners facing inland are reinforced by two round towers. In the west there is the entrance preceded by a ravelin (external fortification to protect the door) with a drawbridge.

The fortress was purchased during the 15th century by the Martinengo family who transformed it into a residential building. Large 16th century windows with Sarnico stone moulded frames were traced on the walls, once devoid of openings. The entrance was also embellished by a grey sandstone ashlar portal framed by two pillar strips supporting a striking entablature with the inscription “EX ALTO”.

The Martinengo family did not live for long in the fortress, which already fell into disrepair towards the end of the 17th Century. The castle, now abandoned, was taken over by the Salvadego family in the first half of the 19th Century and then purchased in the 1960s by the Mascheroni family of Monza who restored it whilst preserving the ancient structures.

References:

• visitlakeiseo.info

Address

Via Sensole 10, Monte Isola, Italy

Details

Founded: 14th century
Category: Castles and fortifications in Italy