Quote: In the German-speaking parts of Switzerland, the town hall is usually called the Rathaus; in the French-speaking sections, you may find it called the Municipo. Here in Bellinzona, it is known as Palazza Civico. This historic building was completely rebuilt in 1924 using the stone from the original building. The two oldest remnants of the original building were salvaged and can be viewed on either side of the entrance on the piazza side of the building.

The building is quite striking and attractive on its exterior, but you need to walk inside to really appreciate the full beauty, where you can view the inner balconies. If you look closely you will note that the wooden ceiling panels are quite old, reinstalled from the previous incarnation of the building, and are hundreds of years old.

You will also see carved stone shields on the walls, which tell the story of Bellinzona. (If you take a city tour, you can ask the guide to help explain the meanings of the slabs). You can also see paintings that depict major events in Bellinzona/Ticino history.

Saturday mornings in the piazza on the north side of the building there is a farmers market, and in December there is a Christmas market.

The Bellinzona Tourism Office (open Mon–Fri 8am–6:30pm, Sat 9am–noon; April–Sept also Sat noon–5pm; Tel. 091/825 21 31, www.bellinzona.ch) has a variety of maps and can arrange walking tours of the city, including themed walks. You can also pick up/drop off the inexpensive "Art Key," the do-it-yourself audio tour, here, but it can also be returned to many other locations in the city. The Tourism Office can also help you find accommodations around the city, which is very helpful!

From journals Bellinzona - Gateway to Southern Switzerland