Bergamo Alta is one of the hidden gems of northern Italy, a place rich in history, culture and medieval charm. Located in the region of Lombardy, this city enchants visitors with its cobbled streets, ancient Venetian walls, and breathtaking views of the lower city and surrounding hills. In this article, we explore what makes Bergamo Alta a must-see destination, with tips on what to seedo and where to taste the best local delicacies.
One of the first things that strikes anyone visiting Bergamo Alta are the imposing Venetian walls. Built in the 16th century by the Venetians, these walls were declared UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a length of over five kilometres, the walls offer a panoramic walk which allows you to admire spectacular views both the lower town and the surrounding hills. During the walk, one can find numerous ramparts, historical doors and small hidden gardensperfect for a relaxing break.
The Venetian walls are not only a defensive structure but represent a journey through the history of Bergamo. Built between 1561 and 1588, these walls are an extraordinary example of Venetian military engineering. To walk along the walls is to immerse oneself in a bygone era, imagining the battles and lives that took place within these fortifications.
An ideal starting point for the walk is St James' Gate, one of the most iconic gates in the walls. From here, you can follow the route of the walls, which offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside. Each bastion along the route has its own unique history, such as the Bastion of San Michelewhich houses a panoramic garden, and the Bastion of St Alexanderwhich offers a privileged view of the lower town.
For those who love photography, the walls are a true paradise. The light filtering through the arches and loopholes creates fascinating shadow effects, making each shot unique. Moreover, the walls are perfect for a walk at sunset, when the sun sets behind the hills, tinging the sky with warm colours and enveloping the city in a magical atmosphere.
A visit to the Venetian walls of Bergamo Alta is an experience that combines history, nature and architecture into a single, unforgettable route. It is the ideal place for a romantic walk, a family day out or simply to enjoy a quiet moment away from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
In the centre of Bergamo Alta is Old Squareconsidered one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. This public space is surrounded by historic buildings as the Palace of Reason, the Angelo Mai Public Library and the Campanone. In the centre of the square, the Contarini fountain adds a touch of Renaissance elegance. Sitting in one of the cafés on the square and enjoying a cappuccino while watching the bustle of passers-by is an experience not to be missed.
Piazza Vecchia is the beating heart of Bergamo Alta, a place where history and modernity meet in a perfect embrace. The square, designed by Pietro Isabello in the 15th century, is an outstanding example of Renaissance town planning. Every building that surrounds it tells a story, and walking around here is like leafing through an open-air history book.
The Palace of Reasonwith its open loggia, is one of the oldest buildings in the square, dating back to the 12th century. This building played a central role in the public life of the city, hosting the court and city assemblies. Today, it is often the venue for art exhibitions and cultural events, offering visitors an opportunity to explore the interior of this historical monument.
Next to the palace, the Angelo Mai Public Library is a treasure trove of knowledge and culture. Founded in 1768, the library houses a vast collection of manuscripts, incunabula and old books, including many rare and valuable texts. A visit to the library offers not only the opportunity to admire its rich collection, but also to appreciate the refined architecture of its interior.
The Campanone, or Civic Tower, is another symbol of the square. At 52 metres high, it offers a panoramic view of the entire city. Climbing to the top of the tower is an exciting experience that allows you to see Bergamo from a completely new perspective. Every night, at 10pm, the sound of its bells still resounds to commemorate the closing of the ancient city gates.
Piazza Vecchia is also a great place to enjoy the local cuisine. The cafés and restaurants that overlook the square offer a wide variety of traditional dishes, from casoncelli at polenta taragnaaccompanied by the region's best wines. It is the perfect place to relax and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of Bergamo Alta.
Not far from Piazza Vecchia is the magnificent Basilica of St. Mary Major. Built in the 12th century, this church is a masterpiece of Romanesque architecturewith an interior that mixes Gothic and Baroque styles. The frescoes, the sculptures and the teleri that adorn the basilica are of a breathtaking beauty. In particular, you cannot miss the carved wooden choir by Lorenzo Lotto, a work of art of incomparable mastery.
The basilica has a fascinating history dating back more than 900 years. It was built as a vow to the Virgin Mary to protect the city from the plague. The interior of the basilica is an explosion of art and faith, with every corner elaborately decorated. Visitors are often struck by the incredible quality and variety of the decorations covering the walls and ceilings.
One of the most impressive features of the basilica is its wooden choirmade by Giovanni Francesco Capoferri from drawings by Lorenzo Lotto. Each panel of the choir is carved with fine detail, depicting biblical and allegorical scenes reflecting a profound theological and artistic knowledge. This chancel is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of wood carving of the Italian Renaissance.
Another element of great interest is the polyptych of St Vincentpainted by Jacopo Palma the Elder. This extraordinary work of art, located on the high altar, consists of several painted panels depicting various saints and religious scenes. The polyptych is an exceptional example of Lombard Renaissance painting and deserves long and careful observation.
In addition to works of art, the basilica also houses numerous teleri, large painted canvases that tell stories from the Bible and the lives of saints. These canvases are particularly remarkable for their size and the quality of the compositions, which succeed in conveying the sense of the sacred and divine with great effectiveness.
Finally, the basilica is a place of great spirituality. Every year, thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit this sacred place not only to admire its artistic beauty, but also to experience a moment of meditation and prayer. The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore is undoubtedly one of Bergamo Alta's most precious treasures, a place where art and faith come together in a perfect fusion.
Bergamo is the birthplace of the famous composer Gaetano Donizettiand opera fans will find it interesting to visit the Donizetti Theatre. This historic theatre, located in the heart of the city, is a true temple of music and art. It regularly hosts operas, concerts and performances of various kindsoffering a prestigious stage to internationally renowned artists and emerging talents.
The theatre, inaugurated in 1791, was named after Donizetti in 1897, in honour of the great composer from Bergamo. Its elegant architecture and refined interiors create a unique atmosphere that transports spectators to another era. Every detail, from the sumptuous chandeliers to the gilded decorations, contributes to making every visit a memorable experience.
Every year in November, the Donizetti Festivalan event celebrating the composer's life and works. This festival attracts artists and fans from all over the world, transforming Bergamo into a capital of opera music. During the festival, the theatre becomes the centre of a busy programme of performances, conferences and cultural activities, offering a comprehensive overview of Donizetti's work and the historical context in which he lived and worked.
The Donizetti Festival is not only an opportunity to enjoy extraordinary musical performances, but also to discover Bergamo's cultural roots. Visitors can participate in guided tours of the theatre and the city, deepening their knowledge of Donizetti's life and work. In addition, the festival often includes master classes and workshops with world-renowned artists, offering a unique opportunity for music students and professionals to learn from the best.
The Donizetti Theatre is an essential stop for anyone visiting Bergamo. Its varied and high-quality programming ensures that there is always something interesting to see, making it a cultural landmark not only for the city, but for the entire region.
Bergamo cuisine is rich and tastyreflecting the traditions agriculture in the region. Among the typical dishes, the polenta occupies a place of honour. Often accompanied by braised meat, rabbit or local cheesepolenta is a comfort food perfect for colder days. This simple but delicious dish is prepared with maize flour and can be served in several variations, from polenta taragna, enriched with cheese, to polenta and osei, a traditional recipe with small roast birds.
Other dishes to try include the casoncellia kind of ravioli filled with meat, typically topped with melted butter, bacon and sage. These ravioli are a perfect example of how Bergamo cuisine knows how to combine simple ingredients to create complex and delicious flavours. Each family and restaurant has its own secret recipe, making each taste a unique experience.
Another distinctive product of the region is the stracciatellaa creamy fresh cheese that has nothing to do with the ice cream of the same name. This cheese is made from cow's milk and has a soft, stringy texture, perfect to spread on a slice of fresh bread or to use as an ingredient in various culinary preparations.
Bergamo cuisine is also famous for its traditional desserts, such as the polenta and osei cake, a marzipan and chocolate cake imitating the appearance of polenta with birds. Other desserts not to be missed are the Donizetti cakededicated to the composer, and the miasciaa cake made of stale bread, fruit and nuts, typical of the peasant tradition.
To complete the gastronomic experience, a tasting of local wines cannot be left out. Lombardy is famous for its wines, and Bergamo Alta offers numerous wine shops and bars where you can enjoy a good glass of wine. An aperitif with Franciacortaa sparkling wine produced nearby, is ideal to start a night on the town. Other wines to try include the Valcalepio Rossoa full-bodied red wine, and the Moscato di Scanzoa sweet wine perfect for accompanying desserts.
To complete your gastronomic experience in Bergamo Alta, you cannot miss out on tasting the local wines. Lombardy is famous for its wines, and Bergamo Alta offers numerous wine shops and bars where you can enjoy a good glass of wine. An aperitif with Franciacortaa sparkling wine produced nearby, is ideal to start a night on the town. This wine, often compared to champagne for its quality and production method, is perfect for toasting in good company.
Besides Franciacorta, the region offers a variety of wines that can satisfy all palates. The Valcalepio Rosso is a full-bodied red wine produced in the hills around Bergamo. It is a rich and aromatic wine, ideal with meat dishes and mature cheeses. The Valcalepio White, on the other hand, is a fresh and fruity white wine, perfect for fish dishes and vegetables.
Another oenological gem of the region is the Moscato di Scanzoa sweet and aromatic wine produced in small quantities. This wine is often served with desserts and is a real treat for fans of sweet wines. Moscato di Scanzo has a ancient history and every sip tells of the unique terroir of the Bergamo hills.
The wine shops of Bergamo Alta offer a welcoming environment where it is possible to taste these wines in the company of friends or family. Many of these wine shops also offer guided tastings, which allow visitors to discover the characteristics and history of local wines in depth. Often, tastings are accompanied by samples of typical products, such as salami, cheese and fresh bread, creating a complete gastronomic experience.
The aperitif in Bergamo Alta is a real ritual. In the city's bars and cafés, you can enjoy classic cocktails such as Negroni or Spritz, accompanied by various appetisers. The panoramic terraces offer a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding hills, making the aperitif a moment of pure pleasure. Those who prefer something less alcoholic can opt for a Aperol Spritz or a Campari Sodatwo typical Italian drinks that go perfectly with the relaxed atmosphere of the aperitivo.
In conclusion, Bergamo Alta is not only a historical and cultural destination, but also a paradise for the foodies and lovers of good wine. The culinary and wine experiences this city offers are a journey into the authentic flavours of Lombardy, which will remain in the heart and palate of anyone lucky enough to try them.
Bergamo Alta is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, and one of the most enjoyable activities is a hike in the Park of the Hillsa protected area offering scenic paths and breathtaking views. This park covers a vast area that includes wooded hills, flower-filled meadows and small historic villages. Walking along the paths in the park is an experience that allows you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the landscape.
The Colli Park is perfect for nature lovers and hikers. The trails are well signposted and vary in difficulty, allowing everyone to find the route best suited to their abilities. Some of the most popular trails include the Bishops' Pathwhich offers a panoramic view of the city and the valley, and the Faggeto Paththrough a beautiful beech forest.
To reach the upper part of the city, you can take the funiculara historical means of transport connecting Lower Bergamo with Upper Bergamo. Inaugurated in 1887, the funicular is a fascinating experience in itself. The short ride offers a panoramic view of the city and is a unique opportunity to see Bergamo from a different perspective. The lower station is located near the lower town, while the upper station is a short walk from the historic centre of Bergamo Alta.
During the funicular ride, passengers can enjoy spectacular views of Bergamo's red rooftops, the surrounding hills and the gardens along the route. The funicular is also a convenient and picturesque way to avoid the ascent on foot, making it ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed approach.
In addition to the excursions and walking, the Colli Park also offers numerous opportunities for birdwatching, picnicking and nature photography. The park's biodiversity is amazing, with a variety of flora and fauna that makes every visit a unique experience. Visitors can admire wild flowers, ancient trees and, with a bit of luck, spot wild animals such as foxes, badgers and numerous bird species.
For the more adventurous, a walk to the Monte Bastia and San Vigilio Castle is a must. Situated on a hill overlooking the city, the castle offers a unparalleled views of Bergamo and the surrounding valleys. This ancient fortress is the ideal place for a picnic or a day of exploration, with its paths meandering through unspoilt nature.
The San Vigilio Castle has a fascinating history dating back to the 6th century, when it was built as a military outpost. Today, it is a quiet and picturesque place, perfect for those seeking peace and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the ancient castle walls, climb the towers and enjoy spectacular views of the town and the Orobian Alps.
The route to the castle is equally fascinating. The paths leading to Monte Bastia pass through lush forests and flower-filled meadows, offering numerous opportunities to admire the local flora and fauna. Along the way, one can find numerous viewpoints where one can stop for a break and enjoy the view.
Once at the castle, there are several picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy an outdoor lunch. Bringing a blanket, good food and a bottle of local wine makes the experience even more enjoyable. Moreover, the castle is a perfect place to take unforgettable photographs, thanks to its elevated position and breathtaking views.
For those interested in history, the castle also offers information on its construction and the role it played over the centuries. The towers and walls are well preserved, and a walk around the castle allows visitors to imagine what life must have been like in this military outpost in times gone by.
Bergamo Alta is a destination that combines history, culture, gastronomy and nature in a perfect mix. Whether it is a walk among the venetian wallsof a visit to the Basilica of St. Mary Majorof an excursion in the Park of the Hills or an evening dedicated to tasting of local flavours, Bergamo Alta has something to offer everyone.
The city is a true medieval treasure in the heart of Lombardy, where every corner tells a story and every visit offers unique emotions. Don't miss the opportunity to discover this hidden gem, where past and present come together in an unforgettable experience. The combination of natural beauty, historical heritage and culinary delights makes Bergamo Alta an ideal destination for travellers of all kinds. Whether you are an art lover, nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Bergamo Alta will captivate you with its timeless charm.
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