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Bellinzona, the capital of Canton Ticino, was built along the valley of the Ticino river, in a highly strategic point for the connection between Switzerland and Italy. Bellinzona is easily reachable from Italy by car, taking the Autostrada dei Laghi from Milan to the Swiss border at Chiasso-Brogeda and then continuing in the direction of the San Gottardo pass along the A2 motorway heading north, exiting at Bellinzona.
During the Middle Ages Bellinzona was for a long time the subject of dispute between Como and Milan, the three stupendous castles date back to this period of struggles, the very symbol of the city and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The castles of Bellinzona represent one of the most interesting fortifications in the Alps and are the main tourist attraction of the city.
During Christmas, the city of Bellinzona is illuminated for celebration, the Bellinzona in light event generally also presents Christmas shows and animations, decorations and illuminations along the streets of the historic center and an ice skating rink in Piazza del Sole. Christmas managed and organized by the merchants of Bellinzona usually takes place in the streets of the historic center during the two Sundays preceding Christmas.
BELLINZONA CHRISTMAS MARKET
Christmas market in the historic center of Bellinzona, usually organized by the local merchants’ society, the market presents objects and gastronomy of the Christmas tradition and local crafts. The market stalls are usually found along the lower part of Viale della Stazione and throughout the historic centre. The Bellinzona Christmas market is made up of about 200 stalls offering quality products. The market usually takes place on the two Sundays before Christmas and is organized by the Bellinzona Traders’ Society. Musical performances complete the event. In the Piazza della Collegiata a carousel is usually set up for children.