About this experience
Discover the medieval charm of Marostica on a guided walking tour. See the iconic Piazza degli Scacchi with chessboard paving, the Lower Castle, the Upper Castle, and enjoy panoramic views of the town
Highlights
- Explore the medieval town with a guide and discover its chess history
- Admire the impressive Lower Castle and its crenellated towers
- Stroll along elegant Corso Mazzini in the historic center and see Porta Bassano
- Marvel the iconic Piazza degli Scacchi and its famous chessboard pattern
- Enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills from the Upper Castle
What's included
- Private walking tour of Marostica with licensed tour guide
- Visit to Piazza degli Scacchi
- View of the Living Chess Game stage
- Visit to Palazzo del Doglione ( external visit )
- Visit to Lower Castle (Castello Inferiore) ( external visit )
- Walk along ancient city walls
- Visit to Church of Saint Antonio Abate
- Walk through former convent cloister
- Climb the Carmini Stairway
- Visit to Upper Castle (Castello Superiore) ( external visit )
- View from Porta Tramontana
- Walk along Corso Mazzini
- View of Porta Bassano
How to use
- Show Mobile Ticket
- At Redemption Counter
What to expect
Begin your journey in the heart of the town: Piazza degli Scacchi. This iconic square immediately captures the imagination with its famous black-and-white marble chessboard pattern that covers the entire piazza. Surrounded by elegant historic buildings, the square is more than just a beautiful space — it is the stage of Marostica’s legendary Living Chess Game. Every two years, the square transforms into a giant chessboard where real people in magnificent medieval costumes reenact a historic match, turning the town into a theatrical celebration of history and tradition.
Overlooking the square stands the Palazzo del Doglione, an important symbol of the city’s civic past and political life. Its elegant architecture reflects the historic role it played in governing Marostica during the Venetian era and offers a glimpse into the town’s fascinating administrative history.
Dominating the square is the impressive Lower Castle (Castello Inferiore), the proud guardian of Marostica. With its crenellated towers, powerful defensive walls, arched gateway, and striking stone façade, the castle immediately evokes the atmosphere of a medieval fortress. This landmark perfectly frames the piazza and transports visitors back to a time of knights, merchants, and fortified cities.
Continue along the ancient city walls to the peaceful Church of Saint Antonio Abate. Its simple yet harmonious façade hides a bright and intimate interior that offers a quiet moment of reflection. Adjacent to the church lies the former convent cloister, a charming space with elegant arcades, a small inner garden, and traces of monastic life that once flourished here.
From here, the experience becomes even more scenic as you follow the historic Carmini Stairway. This picturesque path climbs the hillside and leads toward the Upper Castle (Castello Superiore), which overlooks Marostica from above. Once part of the town’s defensive system, the fortress offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the area. From its ancient bastions and remaining watchtowers, you can admire the walled town below, the terracotta rooftops of the historic center, and the rolling hills that surround Marostica.
Nearby you will also encounter Porta Tramontana, the historic northern gate of the city, perfectly integrated into the defensive wall system that once protected the town.
The walk continues along Corso Mazzini, the lively main street of the historic center. Here elegant historic palaces stand beside artisan shops, cafés, and local boutiques, offering a vibrant glimpse into everyday life in Marostica today.
Conclude your tour near Porta Bassano, the imposing southern gateway of the city walls, leaving you with a lasting impression of Marostica’s medieval grandeur.
Terms & conditions
Wear comfortable shoes for walking
Check the schedule for the Living Chess Game if interested
Be prepared for outdoor weather conditions