The outer profile of the fortress, along the eastern side, is characterised by the presence of three mighty bastions designed for the use of firearms: two at the ends, facing Trento and Rovereto, and one in the middle facing the residential palace of the Counts Trapp. Circular
in shape and robust, the bastions are equipped with a patrol walkway, machicolations, and embrasures for cannons.

A wide grassy area enclosed between two of the three walls on the eastern side of the castle allows a good overall view of the fortified complex. An area essentially destined for defence, also documented as a place for troop encampments and military training, as well as vineyards and farmland. Its elongated and flat shape evokes the appearance of a field for knightly tournaments.

The route inside the castle involves passing through a series of gates, the third of which is traditionally called the ‘Dark Gate’. It is, in fact, a steep and curved tunnel with three successive entrances, designed to obstruct the attacker’s visibility. The defence was reinforced by a machicolation and a portcullis at the entrance, which could be lowered
along the two lateral grooves.

After passing the guard post at the Dark Gate, one enters the first courtyard, controlled from above by the sentry walkway. Here stands a service building known as the ‘former granary’, now used as a museum space. Finally, one reaches the fourth gate, with its elegantly decorated arch, protected by gun loops, loopholes and a machicolation.

The position of the castle allows an excellent view over a wide area: the Adige Valley on the western side and the road towards Folgaria and the Vicenza area on the opposite side. Control and defence were ensured by a system of patrol walkways along the whole perimeter of the outer walls, some of which can still be walked today.