Although it was the most powerful fortress in the Alpine region with its 500-meter-long barrage wall, the original Swiss managed to capture it in the early 16th century.

From 1513 to 1798, the bailiffs of the three estates resided here, which is why the castles were given the names Uri, Schwyz and Unterwalden. Castelgrande is a pilgrimage site of modern architecture and has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2000. The cantonal historical-archaeological museum is also located here. In Montebello is the Municipal Civil Museum and in Sasso Corbaro is the Folklore Museum. Castelgrande also offers a restaurant with a terrace and Sasso Corbaro a tavern. Beautiful walks lead from Costelgrande through the "Murata" (former dam) to the foot of the castle hill and from the central Piazza Collegiata to Montebello Castle.