Our exploration of the Lake Idro area can only end at the very unique Rocca erected between the 9th and 10th centuries on the top of a spur in the village of Sabbio Chiese, which can be reached along the 'delle Coste' road from Brescia or from the road along the valley floor and is accessible from Easter to September with guided tours upon reservation.

The Rocca di Sabbio Chiese was a place of defence and a lookout post for the population, who took refuge here in the event of assaults. It preserves a millenary history, the complexity of which can already be guessed by looking at the strange intersection of buildings from different eras that merge into its harmonious complex.

Originally a castle surrounded by three walls, at the beginning of Venetian rule the Rocca di Sabbio Chiese underwent a complete change of use, becoming a Sanctuary dedicated to the Madonna della Rocca in 1527.

Of the various transformations that have taken place over the centuries, today there are two overlapping churches connected by two internal staircases: together with the remains of the ancient castle (including the entrance portal with the guard and the numerous underground passages), they form a rich, imposing unicum that is well worth admiring.   

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Ph: Bresciatourism.it