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Founded: 1790Category: Palaces, manors and town halls in Estonia
Historical period: Part of the Russian Empire (Estonia)
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The manor was first mentioned in 1323 as Alba Curia. It was constructed as a vassal castle in the Middle Ages. In the 1620s-1630s, it was rebuilt as a Renaissance palace, and slightly altered in the 18th and 19th centuries. In the 20th century, the estate belonged to the Soviet military forces, and the main building remained in ruins after a fire in 1993. In 2000-2002, the ruins were looted (the side portals were stolen, and rear wall broken along with the lion mascaron of the main portal, among other things).
Reference: Estonian Manors
Sirmione castle was built near the end of the 12th century as part of a defensive network surrounding Verona. The castle was maintained and extended first as part of the Veronese protection against their rivals in Milan and later under the control of the Venetian inland empire. The massive fortress is totally surrounded by water and has an inner porch which houses a Roman and Medieval lapidary. From the drawbridge, a staircase leads to the walkways above the walls, providing a marvellous view of the harbour that once sheltered the Scaliger fleet. The doors were fitted with a variety of locking systems, including a drawbridge for horses, carriages and pedestrians, a metal grate and, more recently, double hinged doors. Venice conquered Sirmione in 1405, immediately adopting provisions to render the fortress even more secure, fortifying its outer walls and widening the harbour.
Thanks to its strategical geographical location as a border outpost, Sirmione became a crucial defence and control garrison for the ruling nobles, retaining this function until the 16th century, when its role was taken up by Peschiera del Garda.