There have always been settlements on the Cidneo Hill since prehistory. During the Roman period there must have been an enormous temple there. From Middle Ages onwards the summit of the hill was reinforced: the Mirabella Tower and the XIVth century Visconti Keep were constructed. Afterwards, the Venetians added a strong defensive system of bastions and warehouses. The XVIth century entrance to the Castle, fitted with a drawbridge in the past, leads to the garden, where one can enjoy a wonderful view of the whole city, and to two museums as well.
The Museum of the Risorgimento.
The Grande Miglio (the corn store) houses the Museum of the Risorgimento, where portraits, pictures, documents and relics from the period of the Risorgimento are displayed.
The Arms Museum.
The Visconti Keep, built on top of the fortified complex, houses the Arms Museum, where there is a selection of arms and armour produced between the XIVth and the late XVIIth century.
Among the numerous items the rooms of the museum have shields and armour, decorated with engravings and relieves, on show.