Montorio: History of the Fortress and Paths by the Springs

Montorio combines prominent reminders of the past with paths that lead through a landscape rich in water. The Castello di Montorio and the paths “MyTag Montorio – Le acque” and “Grande Anello della Storia” offer different starting points for an individual trip to Italy.

Castle, Church and a Turbulent History

The medieval castrum of the Castello di Montorio dates back to the 10th century and stands on earlier Roman structures. In 995, Emperor Otto III donated the Castello di Montorio to the Archbishop of Verona. Between 1860 and 1866, the Austrians converted the complex into a fortress with a large, enclosed artillery battery containing 35 cannons. The medieval origins and the later military use therefore belong to different phases of the same complex.

The ancient Pieve di Santa Maria Assunta also has a long history: it has been documented since 1069. Historically, it was the mother church of the churches in Val Squaranto; its area of jurisdiction extended as far as the Adige near Mambrotta.

Another, significantly more troubled chapter of the local history is represented by the DAT La Colombara building. During the Second World War, it was used as a concentration camp for Jewish people. During this period, it was also a place of imprisonment for political prisoners and for relatives of men who refused military service.

Paths for Water and Nature Experiences

The “MyTag Montorio – Le acque” path comprises 17 stages and begins and ends at Piazza Buccari. The 17 stages provide a concrete structure for planning a day. Its route passes between the springs and streams of Montorio.

The “Grande Anello della Storia” path is suitable for cyclists, hikers and nature lovers. It therefore allows several modes of transport for personal travel planning.

Laghetto Squarà and Nearby Destinations

Laghetto Squarà is an artificial lake of Roman origin. It was created as a reservoir for spring water used to supply the aqueduct toward Verona. At Laghetto, the former use of spring water for an aqueduct toward Verona is therefore evident alongside the route itself.

The Museo Africano, a museum, is located in the area around Montorio. The nearby area also contains Palazzo Giusti, a palace, and Castle Saint Pietro, a castle. The Teatro romano di Verona, an ancient site, is also located in the area around Montorio.

Several natural arches are also located in the surrounding area: Porta Leoni, Arco della Costa and Porta Borsari are natural arches. Porta Vescovo is a landscape feature classified as a natural arch and is located near Montorio.

Isola Della Scala, Castel D'azzano, Valeggio Sul Mincio, Castelletto Di Brenzone, Castello, Bionde, Angiari and Cazzano di Tramigna.

To the higher-level travel overview: Verona.