The first stop on our tour to discover Varesotto's castles is Rocca D'Angera, which was built during the 12th century by the bishops of Milan on a rocky spur dominating the southern shore of Lake Maggiore.

Its strategic position allowed it to control local traffic, which was the cause of the dispute between the Torriani and Visconti families.  Long owned by the Visconti family, who extended and renovated the castle, it then fell into the hands of the Ambrosian Republic until it was definitively entrusted to the Borromeo family in 1449, who still own the property today.

Bearing witness to their ownership, the family's coat of arms appears above the main door and guides visitors into the castle's interior through a route that takes in all of its riches. The majestic Historic Halls, which were enhanced by the recent installation of the Room of Majolicas to house a magnificent collection of 300 rare pieces, is particularly striking.

The Museum of Dolls and Toys is also unmissable: the largest in Europe, it displays dolls, wooden and tin toys, as well as children's books and newspapers dating from the 18th century to the present day.