On Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September, the Castello Bonoris in Montichiari will exceptionally open its most evocative areas as part of the initiatives of the Rete dell’800 Lombardo. Now in its fifth edition, the event will let visitors explore the watchtowers and the walkways along the ramparts, normally excluded from standard tours, offering a rare chance to learn about the construction of the neo-Gothic manor and its architectural features.
The experience, curated by the museum staff led by Federico Troletti, will focus on how the castle was built between 1891 and 1901, emulating the medieval styles preferred by Count Gaetano Bonoris, a wealthy banker inspired by well-known examples of castle architecture from Piedmont and the Aosta Valley. The manor stands on the hill of San Pancrazio and overlooks Montichiari’s historic core, with crenellated towers and moats designed with close attention to defensive details such as machicolations, retractable portcullises and even a drawbridge, while the interior highlights rich materials, fresco decorations and period furnishings crafted by top artisans.
Tours are scheduled for 11:00 and 16:00 on both days, with groups capped at a maximum of 15 participants each. Entry is free, but booking is mandatory; reservations can be made by calling the Montichiari Musei office at 030/9650455, emailing info@montichiarimusei.it, or checking www.montichiarimusei.it. The Castello Bonoris is among Lombardy’s most important examples of Neo-Gothic architecture, commissioned by Count Gaetano Bonoris (1861–1923), and it is also known for a secret safe discovered after the count’s death, which remains visible inside the manor.
Italian Version