
Centro Storico Marostica
Marostica, a medieval gem in Veneto, captivates with its intact walls, iconic chessboard piazza, and legendary living chess game.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Walls open for walking

Centro Storico Marostica
Best Time
Walls open for walking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Marostica, a medieval gem in Veneto, captivates with its intact walls, iconic chessboard piazza, and legendary living chess game.
"A magnificent wall that protected the entire city of Marostica."

🚶♀️ Walk the Walls
Access to the walls is limited to Sundays/holidays. Get your tickets for a scenic stroll!
♟️ Chess Game Dates
The famous living chess game happens only every two years. Plan your trip accordingly!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Medieval City Walls
Circumference of Marostica
Stroll along 1800 meters of remarkably preserved medieval walls, connecting two castles.

Piazza degli Scacchi
Central Piazza
The heart of Marostica, famous for its giant chessboard floor and the Lower Castle.

Castello Superiore (Upper Castle)
Hilltop overlooking Marostica
Explore the historic Upper Castle for breathtaking views of the town and surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Walk the Medieval Walls
Chess Game Spectacle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Walls
Access to the walls is limited to Sundays/holidays. Get your tickets for a scenic stroll!
♟️ Chess Game Dates
The famous living chess game happens only every two years. Plan your trip accordingly!
🏰 Castle Views
Climb to the Upper Castle for stunning panoramic views of Marostica and the Veneto hills.
🛍️ Local Markets
Check for antique and artisan markets in the historic center on weekends.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Walls
Access to the walls is limited to Sundays/holidays. Get your tickets for a scenic stroll!
♟️ Chess Game Dates
The famous living chess game happens only every two years. Plan your trip accordingly!
🏰 Castle Views
Climb to the Upper Castle for stunning panoramic views of Marostica and the Veneto hills.
🛍️ Local Markets
Check for antique and artisan markets in the historic center on weekends.
☕ Gastronomy Stops
Discover local eateries and bars in the historic center for a taste of Marostica.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Marostica is widely praised for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval walls and charming historic center, particularly the iconic Piazza degli Scacchi. Visitors highlight the unique experience of walking the ramparts and the magic of the living chess game. Some find the town quiet outside of event days, and access to the walls is limited to specific times.
"Intact town walls that are all the more impressive as they stretch up the hill from the "Lower Castle" to the "Higher Castle".
I was there during the Christmas period and the walls were lit up at night. Fantastic."
David Smith
"Wonderful city with a beautiful piazza and castle! Worthy to visit while you are in Veneto!"
Lirim Thaci
"I love you"
CRISTINA PERUZZO
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Marostica is a beautiful quick trip from Verona. You can reach it by car, which is the most convenient option, or by public transport involving a bus or train journey with potential transfers. The drive typically takes around 45-60 minutes.
While Marostica has bus connections, traveling by train might require a change. Many visitors find driving or taking a bus from nearby cities like Vicenza or Verona to be more straightforward.
Marostica's historic center is accessible through ancient gates like Porta Bassanese, Porta Vicentina, and Porta Bregantina, all integrated within its impressive medieval walls.
There are parking areas available outside the historic center. It's advisable to park and then explore the town on foot to fully appreciate its charm and avoid traffic within the walls.
Absolutely! Marostica is perfect for a day trip, offering a compact yet rich historical experience with its walls, castles, and famous piazza.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Walking a section of the medieval walls costs around 5 euros. A combined ticket including a visit to the Lower Castle is approximately 11 euros. Access is typically available on Sundays and holidays.
The medieval walls of Marostica are generally open for visitors on Sundays and public holidays. It's best to check the official schedule for specific opening times and any seasonal variations.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons or on popular holidays, to ensure your entry and avoid queues.
Guided tours are often available for the walls and castles, providing deeper historical insights. Inquire locally or check the official Marostica tourism website for tour options and booking.
Opening hours for the castles can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Marostica tourism website or contact local information centers for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Marostica is famous for its 'living chess game' (Partita a Scacchi), a historical re-enactment held every two years in Piazza degli Scacchi. Live actors, dressed as chess pieces, play a game on the giant chessboard floor.
The historic center boasts the Piazza degli Scacchi with its chessboard, the Lower Castle, charming streets, artisan shops selling chessboards, and local gastronomy spots.
Yes, Marostica's historic center is very walkable. Exploring on foot is the best way to discover its medieval charm, from the piazza to the castle paths.
You can find unique artisan shops, particularly those selling handcrafted chessboards made from various precious materials. There are also antique and collectible stalls during market days.
Besides the biennial chess game, Marostica hosts markets, especially antique and artisan fairs on Sundays and holidays. The town also has a vibrant culinary scene with local bars and restaurants.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Marostica offers traditional Veneto cuisine. Look for local specialties and enjoy the gastronomic offerings at its bars and restaurants, which often feature a variety of food products.
Explore the historic center for charming restaurants and 'gastronomie' (delicatessens) like La Zangola, offering a range of food products and a place to relax.
Yes, several bars in the historic center, especially around Piazza degli Scacchi, offer aperitivo. Bucintoro is noted for its cocktails and lively atmosphere.
As part of the Veneto region, Marostica likely offers local wines. Ask at restaurants and bars for regional selections to complement your meal.
The area around Piazza degli Scacchi has several dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants, perfect for enjoying the atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots from the medieval walls, the Piazza degli Scacchi with its chessboard, the Lower Castle, and panoramic views from the Upper Castle. The illuminated walls at night are also magical.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photographing the walls and castles. Nighttime offers a different charm with the illuminated walls.
Yes, photography is usually permitted during the living chess game, but be mindful of the crowds and respect the performers.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for general shots. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the walls and piazza, and a telephoto can be good for details on the castles.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and any specific signage within the castles or museums.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for the living chess game if your visit coincides with its schedule – it's a truly magical experience for all ages. Many local eateries offer child-friendly options, and the town's compact size makes it easy to navigate with little ones. Consider visiting during a market day for extra stimulation.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
The Piazza degli Scacchi itself is a historical marvel, and understanding its role in the town's past, including the famous chess game, is essential. Don't miss the opportunity to walk the walls, as this provides a unique perspective on the town's defensive layout and its integration with the landscape.
📸 Photographers
For dramatic shots, head to the Castello Superiore for panoramic vistas. If you're lucky enough to visit during the living chess game, it's a unique event for capturing dynamic action shots. The town's charming streets and artisan shops also provide excellent subjects for street photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magnificent Medieval Walls
Since mid-2018, a section of these walls has been made accessible for walking on Sundays and holidays. This offers a unique and highly recommended experience, allowing visitors to traverse a portion of the ramparts, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Marostica and the surrounding Veneto countryside, and truly appreciate the strategic importance and scale of this ancient defense system. The walk is relatively short but incredibly evocative.
Tip: Ensure you check the official opening days and times for wall access, as it's not always available. The cost is modest, and the experience is considered a highlight by many visitors.
The Famous Living Chess Game
The spectacle is a major draw, attracting visitors from around the globe. The next event is scheduled for September 2024, so if you're planning a visit around that time, this is an absolute must-see. The atmosphere is electric, with elaborate costumes, horses, and a palpable sense of history coming to life.
Planning Tip: Tickets for the chess game sell out quickly, and accommodation in Marostica books up far in advance. If you plan to attend, book your tickets and lodging months ahead of time.
Exploring Marostica's Castles
The Castello Superiore, located on the hill overlooking the town, offers a more challenging but rewarding climb. The ascent, often via the medieval walls, provides increasingly stunning vistas. Once at the top, you're rewarded with panoramic views that stretch across Marostica, the surrounding plains, and the distant hills. It’s a perfect spot for photography and to grasp the town's strategic position.
Visitor Insight: Many travelers recommend visiting both castles to get a complete understanding of Marostica's defensive history and to enjoy the contrasting perspectives they offer. The walk between them, especially along the walls, is a highlight.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit