The well-preserved Drena Castle ruins stands on the rock overlooking the deep gorge of the Salagoni River. Built in the 12th century, Drena was probably erected over a prehistoric village. During the Middle Ages, the castle became an important stronghold to control the road connecting Trento and Lake Garda. Unassailable from the flames, the castle is defended by two rows of walls and has been constructed in a dominating position over a gorge - rendering it impregnable to the techniques in use at the time. The castle is mostly Romanesque, but includes a number of Gothic features and 16th century structures.
Frequently contended, in 1703 Drena castle was destroyed by French troops led by General Vendome as well as practically all the castles in the area.
Recently refurbished, Castel Drena can be visited throughout the year, and uses to host numerous cultural events, as well as a permanent exhibition. Overlooking the complex is the 25 metres high fourteenth-century tower, the top of which affords a view over the evocative Marocche stone quarry.
Visby Cathedral (also known as St. Mary’s Church) is the only survived medieval church in Visby. It was originally built for German merchants and inaugurated in 1225. Around the year 1350 the church was enlarged and converted into a basilica. The two-storey magazine was also added then above the nave as a warehouse for merchants.
Following the Reformation, the church was transformed into a parish church for the town of Visby. All other churches were abandoned. Shortly after the Reformation, in 1572, Gotland was made into its own Diocese, and the church designated its cathedral.
There is not much left of the original interior. The font is made of local red marble in the 13th century. The pulpit was made in Lübeck in 1684. There are 400 graves under the church floor.