Montecchio Maggiore

Montecchio Maggiore is one of the liveliest and most characteristic cities of the area, located not far from the historic center of the provincial capital and the wonderful Berici Hills. Its name derives from the Latin "Monticulus", which probably means small mountain or mound, only later was added "major", probably to distinguish it from other Italian municipalities.

Located between the Chiampo Valley and the Agno Valley, this pretty city is surrounded by rolling hills and important historical buildings dating back to the Middle Ages. To dominate, however, on the hills that surround this town are the Bellaguardia Castle and the Villa Castle, also known as Romeo and Giulietta Castles.

Thanks to their position and their characteristics, the Castles of Romeo and Giulietta are one of the major attractions of the Veneto region. The two castles should have been built in the second half of the fourteenth century by the Scaligeri, although someone believes that an older fortification existed around these areas around the year one thousand.

The Castle of the Villa, also called Romeo, because attributed to the Montecchi family, is an interesting example of military architecture, built in a dominant position and incorporating a tower which was later transformed into a keep.

Bellaguardia Castle, also known as Giulietta Castle, stands on the opposite hill three hundred meters away from the Villa Castle. The fortification was built by Cangrande II della Scala, in place of an older tower, which was used to defend the Vicenza and Veronese plains. Over the years the two fortresses continue to face each other as in the past. Today the Bellaguardia Castle is used as a restaurant, instead the Villa Castle for cultural activities.

In fact, few know that the tragic story of the two lovers was not originally written by William Shakespeare but, by one of the most illustrious writers of the Vicenza area, or Luigi da Porto. It is believed, in fact, that the story was written right inside Villa da Porto, in Montorso Vicentino, where the view of the majestic Scaliger fortresses had to appear, then as today, particularly suggestive and romantic. Also not to be missed in the area are the Palladian Villa Cordellina Lombardi, a sumptuous residence with frescoes by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, Villa Loschi Zileri, always frescoed by Giovanni Tiepolo, and finally the Cathedral of Santa Maria and San Vitale in neo-Gothic style.

◊ THE VICENZA PROVINCE ◊

It is one of the most industrialized and richest areas in Italy but, at the same time, still maintains many green and wild areas. You’ll beamazed by the charm of this city thanks to its Palladian villas, sumptuous palaces, the great green valleys that run throughout the territory, such as the Valsugana, and the great enchanted woods of the Seven Municipalities Plateau. Do not miss the typical towns of Vicenza, set in the territory as precious diamonds, which preserve works and typical products of the highest prestige. This province, famous for the nicknames about cats, will surprise you day by day for its artistic beauties scattered throughout the territory. Plan your holidays in the province of Vicenza, our tips and suggestive photographs will help you to take the right path for your trip.

◊ SPECIAL CATEGORIES ◊

The Veneto Region, nestled in the north-east of Italy, is a mix of history and traditions and, all of it, is enriched by the liveliness of its inhabitants and by a wide range of typical products all to be savored. From the highest peaks of the Dolomites, he embraces and welcomes each visitor with brotherly warmth, accommodating him among the many lounges of his cities of art, giving him unforgettable emotions. Turning between the pages of this site, you can organize your next holidays in the Veneto region and thanks to the many photos published, everything will be very simple.