Perledo, Castello di Vezio

This ancient manor-house from the XI century, although refurbished several times, can be found in Vezio, a hamlet of Perledo, a medieval village which also has a sixteenth century oratory dedicated to Sant’Antonio. Today the castle of Vezio appears as a square based fortification with tall walls and a central tower accessible from a functioning drawbridge. Over one thousand olive trees surround the construction. The level underground was probably built in world war one and has been open to the public since 1999. Unique to the castle is the presence of trained birds of prey devoted to their falconer, who entertain the public with spectacular demonstrations. The castle of Vezio was part of the fortification network that often visually connected the castles and watching over the ancient communication routes that ran along the lake and allowed access to the valleys. Worthy of mention are the castles of Dervio and Corenno Plinio, while, on the Como arm of the lake, the castle of Menaggio, the one of Rezzonico and the impenetrable fortress of Musso.