The itinerary starts from the “Rocca dei Terzi”: probably the castle in defence of Sissa already existed in the 11th century and was conquered by the Terzi family in the early 14th century. It was equipped enough to resist the Rossi’s attacks at the beginning of the following century, but was later dismantled by order of the Republic of Venice, after the intervention to support the Terzi family (1424). The fortified tower was maintained, whereas the walls were demolished. It was reconstructed in 1440, designed as a residential building.
In 1551, during new clashes between the Rossi and the Terzi families, the Fortress was sacked, however, the Terzi managed to govern the town until 1758.
The current appearance of the Fortress derives from the 18th-century renovation that connected the ancient 14th-century fortified tower with the residential side bodies. The fortified tower still retains its ancient appearance, whereas the drawbridge is no longer existing.
Recent restoration works involved the east side staircase (reconstructed during the 50s) and the entrance staircase, which was completely renovated in reinforced concrete and wood. Inside, the building preserves 18th-century halls with ribbed and cross vaults (in one of which you can admire a fresco by Sebastiano Galeotti).
The valuable clock located inside the tower has been restored and is perfectly working. The bell tower should date back to 1548, but is probably several years older.

 

 

Heading towards the Po area, you may reach the Regional Tourist Port, built in the mid-60s. Originally, it included about 20 berths and accommodation in fishing cabins for those families looking for peace and quiet after the workweek.
In 1995, the “Nautica Torricella” Association that managed the port over time, became an amateur sports association, organizing activities related to motorboat, water skiing, kayak and sport fishing.
Nowadays, the Regional Tourist Port offers to visitors many services, including boat trips and free mountain bike rental.

Finally, from the car park in “Strada del Lazzaretto”, it is possible to reach the “Fontanile della Commenda”, an area equipped with information panels. It is characterized by clear and fresh spring waters, arboreal plants and a thick vegetation, which helps maintain the water temperature constant throughout the year. Among the animal species of the area, it is worth mentioning the “Ghiozzetto dei Fontanili” or “Panzarolo” fish, the “Cordulegaster boltonii” dragonfly and the “Calopterix virgo” damselfly. The Lorno canal flows beyond the road, where other “Fontanili” (springs) such as the “Fontanone” and the “Fontanile di Sant’Antonio” are located.