Malpaga between Castle History and Parkland

Malpaga between Castle History and Parkland

Malpaga combines an important historic building with the landscape of the Parco del Serio. Malpaga Castle is located in the Parco del Serio and is considered one of the significant Lombard buildings of the 15th century. Its significance is historical, architectural and artistic. This gives you a destination that is best understood through specific places, dates and handed-down scenes, rather than solely through a general local setting. The building and its setting within the park provide two clear reference points for planning your stay.

The Story of Bartolomeo Colleoni

Bartolomeo Colleoni bought Malpaga Castle in 1456 and chose it as his residence. This connection between the building and its historical figure shapes the way Malpaga is viewed: the history remains tangible, tied to a specific place and a clearly dated decision. If you are interested in Lombardy’s political and social past, this episode offers an accessible way to understand the development of the castle and its role in the 15th century.

Frescoes and Narrated History in the Building

In the Salone dei Banchetti, Malpaga Castle contains a narrative cycle from the 16th century. It depicts the visit of King Christian I of Denmark. The piano nobile contains 15th-century frescoes executed by French Gothic workshops. Both areas bring together different forms of historical and artistic heritage: the Salone dei Banchetti recounts a specific encounter, while the frescoes in the piano nobile make the building’s architectural and art-historical significance visible. These rooms can therefore appeal to different interests during your visit, from courtly history to the European artistic tradition.

History to Experience

During a guided tour of Malpaga Castle, visitors can wear historical clothing and learn about court life in the 15th century. The “Assalto al Castello” activity offers simulated challenges using harmless replicas of historical weapons. Another perspective is provided by the “Malpaga Oscura” experience, in which Malpaga Castle is explored by candlelight and lantern light.

The Palio di Malpaga in August

The Palio di Malpaga takes place every year in August. Historical reenactors and historical groups come together to recreate authentic scenes from medieval life. The event is therefore one of Malpaga’s recurring cultural reference points. If you want to plan your stay around a specific date, August is the period when this Palio takes place. The recreated scenes complement the history of Malpaga Castle with a communal form of representation.

Cycling in the Parco del Serio

The Ciclabile del Parco del Serio Nord also serves as a practical reference point for finding your way around Malpaga. Along this cycle path, there is a water refill point at the percorso vita in Malpaga.

More Places for Planning Your Trip

Treviglio, Fara Gera D'adda, Gazzaniga, Albino, Valbondione, Olda, Spinone Al Lago, Brumano

For the higher-level travel overview: Bergamo.