San Vittore Castle (Ruin)

Built at the foot of a mountain north of San Vittore, the castle has two distinct towers that sit atop a rock. The two stone blocks, more than three meters apart, were probably connected by a walkway. The southern tower, of which only remains are left, probably served as a residential building, i.e. a kind of dwelling. It was accessed through an entrance to the east at the foot of the rock. The larger north tower consisted of six floors and represented the main building. The walkway that connected it to the other rock provided access. The square shape was equipped with latrines, various niches, and a sink. It is possible that a now-disappeared surrounding wall protected the castle and various huts.

History does not reveal much about the castle of San Vittore. The southern tower was probably built in the 12th century, while its larger sister was built in the second half of the 13th century. Documents from the second half of the 12th century mention an Albert of San Vittore, but this does not allow the conclusion that he was present at the beginning of the building's construction. It is certain, however, that San Vittore fell under the yoke of the Sax Misox - the lords of Mesocco - in the 13th century when they began to rule over the Mesolcina Valley.

At this time, the administration of San Vittore and its surroundings was entrusted to a parallel branch of the Sax. The intendants of the Sax Misox probably had the northern tower built and later, around the year 1400, its upper floors. They remained permanently in the castle, but when their line died out in the 15th century, the castle was abandoned and fell into ruin.