Historic Renaissance Tower Near Arco Faces Collapse Threat

“The centuries-old tower has become a collapsing ruin, and, despite the insensitivity of the public authority, it is crumbling. It’s only a matter of time before, inexorably, it turns into a pile of stones.” This is Silvio Malfer, president of the caneve spontaneous neighborhood committee, raising the alarm—or rather, repeating it—about this piece of the past located in the countryside near the hamlet.

“I haven’t had the chance to learn historical details about the Renaissance-origin tower, which probably has connections to the conti d’Arco,” Malfer comments, “but, according to several locals, it should be preserved for its originality and age.”

If restored, it could become an attraction, integrating into the already initiated program to promote Arco through local history tourism. This is confirmed by the unexpected crowding at the castle, even though it is reduced to a “skeleton.” Malfer suggests there are other factors to consider.

Historical value and recovery possibilities

The hamlet of Caneve, with notable Renaissance-era testimonies and the church of S. Rocco adorned with frescoes of the Mantegna school, is a frequently visited site.

“The owner of the dilapidated structure is willing to sell it along with the access land. A few years ago, the municipal council allocated, if I’m not mistaken, around ten million lire for the ‘tower operation.’ But then, nothing happened.”

It is true that some time ago, with Stefano Bresciani as the assessor, I accompanied a cultural heritage official from the Provincia for an inspection of what remains of the tower.

The expert considered the costs for repairing the “four walls” excessive. It’s necessary to verify the context in which the expenditure would be made. Not from the provincial perspective, where other priorities are more pressing.

The question is whether “the expenditure is worth the candle,” meaning if it will be justified by the expected tourist appeal.