Built as an alternative to the Palace in Piazza dei Signori, Castelvecchio with the Ponte Scaligero is the latest and most prestigious residence of the Scaligeri. Castelvecchio was built by Cangrande II della Scala, together with the bridge which completed its defensive function. Accessible only from inside the castle, the bridge garanteed an escape route towards the north. The construction was finished by Cansignorio and lasted the span of twenty years, from 1354 to 1375. The property is on the edge of the municipal ramparts that connected the river Adige with the Porta del Morbio, one of the ancient entrances to the city.
Originally called Castle of San Martino in Aquaro due to the small church incorporated during the construction, then it changed its name to distinguish it from new Visconti castles San Pietro and San Felice. Castelvecchio means old castle.
The interior of the castle houses since 1924 the "Municipal Art Gallery" with paintings of great value, most of painters from Verona, sculptures, an armory, an exhibition of fourteenth century fabrics of great value. The museum also has an art library and a concert hall. The other wing of the castle is now used for private use of the Officers' Club.
