THE FORTRESS OF ORINO

Nestled in the heart of Valcuvia with its thousand-year history, the Rocca still fascinates those who encounter it in the woods today

Situated in a panoramic position above the town of Orino, at 540 meters above sea level and reachable through a simple walk in the woods – during which you can also admire some wooden sculptures by Sergio Terni – the Rocca di Orino is a suggestive fortification of ancient origin. Built on a rocky spur, it offers a spectacular view of the entire Valcuvia and represents one of the most fascinating historical places in the area.

The origins of the fortress most likely date back to the pre-Roman era (3rd-4th century BC), when it was used as an observation and visual communication point for the defense of the borders. The first certain news dates back to March 1176 and is contained in the records of the parish church of San Lorenzo in Cuvio.

Over the centuries, it was fortified several times, particularly in the Lombard era, it passed under the control of the Besozzi family and was an important strategic bulwark during the wars between the Guelphs and Ghibellines in the 13th century, until the victory of the Visconti.

With the decline of its military importance and, in the sixteenth century, the advance of the Swiss troops, in whose hands it remained for some years, the Rocca was dismantled and progressively abandoned. Only at the beginning of the twentieth century did it experience a new period of attention, thanks to the intervention of the owner Mario Sangalli who initiated an important restoration, partially rebuilding it almost from scratch.

Today the Rocca appears as an imposing structure: a quadrilateral surrounded by a high wall and defended by towers, with an internal courtyard with a cistern and remains of the ancient "Rocchetta", completely in ruins. Some architectural elements, such as the battlements, part of the north-east tower and the turret of the north wall, are the result of 20th century restorations.

The structure is currently privately owned and not open to the public except on certain occasions, but continues to fascinate visitors and history buffs for its symbolic value and the naturalistic context that surrounds it.