Events: The Battle of Borghetto, 30 May 1796

Area:     Borghetto, Valeggio.

The trail: The Borghetto trail traces Bonaparte’s resumption of the military advance on the River Mincio at Borghetto, which forced the Austrians to abandon Northern Italy, safe the fortress of Mantua. An otherwise rather insignificant military encounter, the Battle of Borghetto deserves its own trail because it combines perfectly a well-preserved battlefield, beautiful scenery and historical landmarks. And then there is the small village of Borghetto, a charming and reclusive destination for many Italians on weekends.

Sights:

Ponte Visconteo, Borghetto: On 30 May the ultra-mobile column under the command of Kilmaine directed the main thrust against a surprisingly weak spot in Beaulieau’s defence of the River Mincio, the bridge at Borghetto.

Castello Scaligero, Borghetto: As the fighting evolved and the French managed to establish a foothold on the opposite bank, the Austrians withdrew up the valley side towards the medieval castle before being forced to leave the scene altogether. Open to the public at all times. The tower is open on weekends.

Palazzo Guarienti, Valeggio: On the same day of fighting, Bonaparte installed his headquarters in the modern Palazzo Guarienti, a stay that almost cost him captivity when an unexpected Austrian force carved its way through the streets of Valeggio. Open to the public.

Villa Maffei, Valeggio: In the spring of 1797 the Veronese took up arms against the series of revolutions sweeping across Venetian soil. Antonio Maffei, a prominent Veronese aristocrat, was entrusted with the defence of the River Mincio (see chapter 15). Villa Maffei was Maffei’s country residence set in the splendid park, the Sigurtá Park. The park alone is open to the public. Opening hours: Mar-Nov 9am-6pm.