In the heart of the Venetian foothills, where the flat plains give way to the first rolling hills, the fortified silhouette of Marostica rises clearly against the horizon.

From afar, visitors are welcomed by the sight of medieval walls climbing the slopes of the hill, connecting the town’s two iconic castles: the Lower Castle and the Upper Castle.

Marostica is internationally renowned for an event that blends performance, history, and local identity: the Human Chess Game, held every two years in the picturesque Piazza degli Scacchi (Chess Square). This costumed reenactment brings to life a medieval legend in which two noblemen challenge each other in a chess match to win the hand of Lionora, the daughter of the castle’s lord. Today, the event features dozens of actors in historical costume, horses, flag bearers, and musicians, transforming the town square into a vivid stage of color and pageantry. The square still preserves the large chessboard built into the pavement, a symbol of the town’s cultural legacy.

Facing the square stands the Lower Castle, a 14th-century structure that now houses a museum. Inside, visitors can explore an impressive collection of traditional costumes used in the chess game, along with exhibits that celebrate the city’s theatrical and sartorial heritage. The castle itself, with its towers, courtyards, and interior halls, remains a well-preserved example of medieval military architecture.

The historic center of Marostica unfolds harmoniously within its defensive walls, featuring cobbled streets, porticoed houses, quaint squares, and artisan workshops. The ambiance is peaceful and authentic, ideal for those seeking to experience the charm of a town that has carefully preserved its identity and rhythms over the centuries.

For those who enjoy scenic walks, a path leads from the town center to the Upper Castle, located on the hilltop overlooking the valley. Along the way, one can admire the impressive stone walls that stretch over the slopes, forming a fortified link between the two castles. Once at the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the Vicenza plain, particularly breathtaking at sunset. The Upper Castle, now home to a restaurant, retains its original medieval features, including stone bastions and enclosed courtyards—an example of how historical architecture continues to coexist with modern life.

Marostica is also known for its cherries. In spring, the surrounding landscape is dotted with delicate white cherry blossoms, which give way to the deep red hues of ripened fruit in early summer. The Marostica IGP Cherries are a prized regional product, celebrated in local festivals and markets.

The countryside around Marostica offers hiking trails, ancient paths, and elegant Venetian villas, telling the story of the area’s agricultural and aristocratic past. The entire region lends itself to relaxing stays in close contact with nature, in a setting steeped in history.

Marostica is not just a tourist destination; it is a place where time seems to follow a different rhythm—one shaped by seasons, traditions, and shared rituals. Its fortified profile, visible from afar, invites travelers to explore a world made of stone, silence, and memory, where every corner reveals a piece of history.