Castello di Lonato in Italy was originally built a millennia ago to protect against invasion from the Barbarians, and its impressive ramparts still stand high above the plains of Lombardy at the southernmost tip of Lake Garda. It no longer has to protect Lombardy against invasion, instead playing a more genteel role as a stunning destination wedding venue where I have had the privilege to work as a photographer.
Known locally known as the “La Rocca”, the Castle welcomes the bride and groom and guests via its door and drawbridge on its Southern side. Few will miss the spectacular view of the Lombardy plains laid out before them as they arrive at the Castle, but it may be easy to miss a relic of ‘La Serenissima’; the Lion of San Marco, symbol of Venetian dominance for centuries. Look to the right and it’s in a niche overhead as you enter through the ancient doors.
You need a head for heights as you reach the ramparts; The sparkling blue lake laid out before you and a sheer drop from its walls should you choose to look downward! You can marry in the shadow of what was once home to the holder of the castle in ancient times or for a more spectacular setting (if a little hot in the heat of the summer) you can marry where once were the living quarters of troops stationed at the castle, complete with remains of a look out and artillery post. The walk up the ramparts to the ceremony area provides a natural aisle that I love for photographs of the bride arriving and for amazing confetti shots matched against a brilliant blue Italian sky…………
The outdoor space and its location make this ram-parted beauty a fairy tale venue. Working as a destination wedding photographer I always look for something different and ‘La Rocca’ has so much to offer; the sparkling lights over Lake Garda at night, the solid ramparts providing a natural backdrop for photographs and space and light in abundance in which to enjoy the day as bride, as groom, as guest or humble photographer. This is what dreams can be made of…………..Enjoy.