Brescia and its sights. City of Brescia (Italy): brief information about the settlement and its attractions

Fairy tale landscapes, magical streets, original ancient Roman architecture, World Heritage Sites, foothills of the Alps, rich story… Yes, there is such a place on Earth, this is Brescia, it can be found on the map of Italy.

Brescia is a wonderful city in Italy, which is located between the two lakes of Iseo and Garda.

The city is located at an altitude of 150 meters above sea level. It is located very close to Milan. Only 99 km east of the capital of fashion, and here you are in a magical corner of Italy.

Brescia is a wonderful place for recreation and tourism. Its close proximity to the Alps and ski resorts gathers here in the season a lot of skiers and just lovers of mountain scenery.

In addition to the Alps in general and Mount Maddalena in particular, which is located on one side of the city, Brescia is also rich in other attractions.

So, what can you see in Brescia:

Developments

Tourists in Brescia are interested not only in sights.

If you visit Brescia in May, you can be a spectator of the legendary car race Mille Miglia. The race starts in Rome, and the cars finish in the central square of Brescia. Only rare cars that were produced no later than 1957 take part in this race.

The Mille Miglia ("1000 miles") vintage car race was organized by two young people - Aimo Maggi and Franco Mazzotti

Here you can get to the feast of St. Faustin, which is celebrated here on February 15th. It is also called Lonely Hearts Day. This holiday is very important for the city, as Faustin and Jovita are considered the patrons of Brescia.

And the most important action that takes place on this day is a grandiose fair on the Loggia Square.

On this day, all local women go to the square and stand in long lines for such coveted things or handbags. Anyone can participate in the fair.

You can get acquainted with the sights and highlights in Brescia in detail by watching the video:

Football club

In addition to architectural sights, Brescia is known for its football club of the same name. This club was founded in 1911. He is currently in Serie B.

The best season in the history of the club was the 2000-2001 season. Only the eighth round was victorious, where they overtook Regina.

But the end of the season brought them an honorable seventh place.
Of all the coaches who have worked at the Brescia football club, three can be noted. This is Antonio Parsinato, who has been coaching players since 1984 and stayed in his position for only two years, until 1986. Another well-known coach is Mircea Lucescu. He joined the club in 1991 and left after five years. In 2000, Carlo Mazzone became the club's coach and stayed with them for three years, until 2003.
The Brescia football club now use the Hospitaletto stadium for training, but their games can be watched at another stadium, which is located almost in the center of the city and is called Stadio Mario Rigamonti. This stadium can accommodate more than 16,000 fans. The city administration plans to build a new stadium, which will be slightly removed from the center and close to the Montichiari airport.

Shopping places

Brescia is a small and industrial city. But this did not prevent the city from becoming the birthplace of many famous fashion designers. Therefore, on the streets of Brescia you will find a huge number of fashion boutiques.
Where should you go in Brescia to find something to your taste? Of course, to the central streets of the city: Via Mazzini, Corso Magenta, Via Gramsci.
But the main goal for those who come here and want to please themselves with new clothes is to visit Outlet Franciacorta. This Brescia outlet harmoniously combines high quality and low prices goods.

Recently opened, Franciacorta Outlet Village is already in full competition with the famous Serravalle outlet in terms of both importance and size.

Franciacorta is a place for discounts from 30 to 70%, which do not depend on seasonal sales in Italy. On the territory of the outlet, you can not only make purchases, but also just relax. There is a children's play area, spas and restaurants. The Franciacorta outlet is open daily. It opens at 10 am. On weekdays, the outlet closes at 20.00, but on Fridays and Saturdays it is open one hour longer.

How to get to Brescia

Of course, Brescia is primarily a tourist destination. How do they get there?
There are several ways to get to Brescia:

• By plane. 20 km from the center there is an airport that receives planes from Naples, Rome, Barcelona, ​​London, Sardinia and some other cities;
• By train. You can travel from Verona to Brescia by train. For a ticket you will have to pay from 13 to 19 euros. The cost of the ticket will depend on which class of carriage you prefer. The journey will take only 35 minutes. You will cover the distance from Milan to Brescia in about 45 minutes, this trip will cost you 12-22 euros;
• By bus. In addition to the railway and air routes, you can also use buses that travel to Brescia from every city in this province, as well as from neighboring provinces. The city has two bus stations. From Verona to Brescia can be reached by bus in just 60 minutes, since the distance between these cities is 70 km.

Brescia on the map of Italy

Where can you stay

Brescia has a very large number of hotels, there are about one and a half thousand of them. But, despite this, it is better to book a room in advance, as this resort is very popular among tourists:

Weather

The resort town of Brescia is characterized by pleasant and comfortable weather almost throughout the year. Sometimes it gets humid here. This is due to the location of the city on the river and near two lakes.
In winter, temperatures in Brescia can drop as little as a couple of degrees below zero.

Winter here is quite warm, the temperature sometimes reaches 6 degrees Celsius.

In the spring it is very warm, but damp. The temperature ranges from 9 to 21 degrees above zero.
Summer in Brescia is not very hot, the maximum temperature here is usually 30 degrees.
But autumn is a rather cold season in Brescia, the October temperature here is only 9 degrees.

When to go to Brescia

If the purpose of your visit to Brescia is skiing, then you should, of course, go there in winter.
Summer will be the perfect time of year for long walks through the fabulous streets and magical squares of the city.
Although you can admire the numerous sights of Brescia at any time of the year. The choice is always yours.

Attractions Brescia

1. Capitoline Temple (Tempio Capitolino)

The Capitoline Temple, located in Piazza del Foro, is a Roman structure and complex, one of the most important examples of Roman architecture in Northern Italy. Created in AD 73, this structure has served people for over 1,000 years and is a clear reminder of the strength of the ancient Roman Empire.

Today, you can still see elements of the temple, including most of the wall, foundations, and some of the gables and pillars. Some details can be seen on the pillars and Latin inscriptions are still visible on the pediment.

2. Brescia Museum of Art and History

If you don't have time to visit historical monuments Brescia, it is worth walking from the center down Via dei Musei through the old Roman Forumand its ancient sights, to the amazing museum complex, housed in a former Benedictine monastery - the Museum of Arts and History of Brescia. Museum combines the beauty of an old building with a fantastic and interesting range of museum collections and exhibitions.

In this museum, you can explore the history of Brescia and learn about the region of Lombardy. Also, below the monastery, you can find a number of preserved Roman houses with beautiful mosaic floors. And also the museum has a fantastic collection of ancient artifacts such as golden relics, historical artwork and sculptures. A tour of the museum will not disappoint you.

3. Piazza della Loggia

As for traditional Italian squares, Piazza della Loggia is without a doubt the most beautiful square in the city. On one side is the Commune di Brescia with its impressive arched columns, marble statues and domed roof. Opposite, above the long colonnade, there is a gigantic clock from 1581, surmounted by two "Macc de le ure" (keepers of time) made of wood and covered with metal.The long palazzo on the south side, Monte di Pieta, has a beautiful Venetian-style loggia above the entrance. In addition, there is a stunning stone statue in the center of the square, as well as many cafes and restaurants.

4. Mille Miglia Museum (Museo Mille Miglia)

If you love racing cars, then you must have heard of the Mille Miglia race, which has reached legendary status both in Italy and around the world. The Mille Miglia Museum is dedicated to this race and its history and is located in an old monastery complex to the east of Brescia. Here you can find a fantastic amount of information about the race and its origins, including past winners, photos and memorabilia, as well as a selection of really winning and competing cars!

5. Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli (Santa Maria dei Miracoli)

The small church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli is a beautifully designed building both inside and out. The façade of the church, located on the busy Via Vittorio Emanuele, is truly stunning with a series of decorated columns and a pediment that has a large number of moldings and sculptures.

Inside, the church looks even more rich - most of the ceiling is covered with an elevated color fresco depicting Christ, the pillars and walls also have many details.

6. Broletto (Broletto)

Another beautiful building located in Piazza Paolo Broletto is the old town hall of Brescia, built in the 12th century. This building looks completely different from the Duomo and it is clear that these buildings are from two different periods of the city's history. The pillars at the threshold are made of Egyptian granite.They date back to the Roman era and used to be the entrance to another cathedral demolished by San Pietro de Dom. Combining a mixture of different architectural styles and designs, the building is truly charming.

7. Lake Iseo

Lake Iseo is the fourth largest lake in the Lombardy region and is in close proximity to Brescia. The lake is about 30 km west of Brescia and you can reach it in about 20 minutes on an excellent highway. Lake Iseo is surrounded by lush green mountains, and its shores are surrounded by small pleasant villages such as Iseo, Predor and Sulzano. These villages are ideal for exploring the sedate life of northern Italy. Also consider taking a ferry to Monte Isola, an island in the middle of a lake.

Brescia (Italy) is one of the largest settlements in the north of the country. It is not simple Big City and the capital of Lombardy. Without exception, all Italians are sure that tourists will not be interested in this industrial center at all. But you can argue with them. Although the city is considered the center of the Italian metallurgical industry, it is replete with attractions, many of which have retained quite a decent appearance since their founding.

A little history of a big city

Once upon a time, the city of Brescia (Italy) was called Brixia, and the tsenomani lived in it. This is a people who were known for providing active support to the ancient Romans. The union contributed to the fact that in a short time Brescia turned into the main city of Transpadanian Gaul. The settlement had this status until the moment After that, the Huns plundered Brescia in a fairly short time.

Brescia (Italy), despite its difficult situation, managed to be reborn: the city was rebuilt and continued to grow rich and prosper. In the 12th century, the settlement turned into an urban commune ruled by petty princes, Franks, Ostrogoths and Lombards. In the XIV century, Brescia became subject to the Visconti dynasty. And already in the 15th century, the city took under her patronage. In 1849, the settlement was subjected to a brutal bombardment that lasted ten days, but after that it was awarded the title "Lioness of Italy".

Kitchen as a calling card

Brescia (Italy) is world famous for its cuisine. The recipes for the main dishes of this region were formed under the influence of Germany. Here, more than in any other place in Italy, it manifests itself in a passion for meat, especially beef, and butter. The national dishes of the area are special dumplings with beef meat, as well as fried pork. The business card of Brescia gastronomy is larks baked in butter.

But not only artsy delicacies are eaten by the inhabitants of this northern Italian city. They also love classic Italian dishes: pizza, polenta and pasta. All these dishes are served in countless city restaurants, cafes and trattorias.

If the sign says agriturizmo, then you can be sure that in this establishment you will be treated only to traditional and authentic delicacies of Lombardy and Brescia. They are prepared using exclusively local products.

What to see in the city

Brescia (Italy), the photo of which is in the article, is unique in that it is one of the few settlements in the country that managed to preserve the real ancient Roman layout. Presented here are more ancient buildings dating back to the era of antiquity. But today you can see only separate fragments of these objects.

The central attraction of the village is Piazza del Forro. This object gives an idea of ​​the Roman forum. Piazza del Forro still houses a Corinthian temple dating back to 73 AD. Archaeologists discovered this structure in 1823.

To the east of the ancient Roman Capitol is the Roman amphitheater, which partially hides the Renaissance palace. It is still considered one of the main attractions of Brescia today.

city ​​castle

The city of Brescia, Italy, like any other historical center, boasts a beautiful castle. It is located on a hill that people have inhabited since time immemorial. Scientists here have discovered artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age. At one time, a majestic temple towered on the hill. During the Middle Ages, the cellars and foundations of the building were used to build a powerful military fortification.

The castle was subjected to repeated sieges. It was repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt the same number of times. The oldest part of the object, which managed to survive to our era, is a huge cylindrical tower - Torre Mirabella. Behind the castle is a beautiful park with picturesque views of Brescia. In the halls there is the Museum of Weapons - one of the best in Europe.

Two squares that deserve your attention

Brescia (Italy), the sights of which we are considering, has two more objects that no tourist has the right to miss. These are Loggia Square and Forum Square. The first square is located in the historical center of the village. It is located in front of the Loggia Palace. It is closed on the south side by three buildings with a gallery.

Forum Square in the Roman era was the heart of city life. It was through it that the main road passed, which connected the village with Verona and Bergamo. On it were the Basilica and the Capitoline Church. For many years, archaeological excavations have been carried out on the square, and Roman monuments have been recreated in parts from the ruins.

Near Brescia are Petroglyphs of Val Camonica(Incisioni rupestri della Valcamonica) included in UNESCO world heritage list .

Get oriented in Brescia

All the sights of the city are located in a quadrangle, the tops of which are the railway station and Piazzale Repubblica in the southwest, Piazzale Vittorio Veneto in the northwest, Brescia Castle in the northeast and the corner of via Spalto San Marco in the southeast. The length of the side of this virtual quadrilateral is about 2 km, the area of ​​the historical center, respectively, is about 4 square meters. km.

History of Brescia

In 89 B.C. Brescia became a Roman colony. The "golden years" of Brescia fell on the eve of a new era, when Emperor Augustus granted the city the title of a colony. Then a water pipe and other public facilities were built.

After the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th-6th centuries, Attila, Odoacer and Theodoric captured Brescia, then the Byzantines came to power, and while they fought with the Goths (535-553), Brescia fell into complete decline. Its revival began during the reign of the Lombards (568-773) and continued under the Franks (774-888).

In 1090, the city briefly became a free commune.

In 1154, Brescia, among other communes, was captured by Frederick I Barbarossa. After enduring 20 years of his rule, Brescia joined the Northern League and regained its independence after the battle of Legnano.

In the 15th century, wanting to get rid of the tyranny of the Visconti family, the city accepted the protectorate of the republic. The Visconti clan did not give up hope of regaining power and in 1438 laid siege to the city. The inhabitants turned to the Duke of Milan Sforza for help, and he liberated Brescia in 1440.

At the beginning of the 19th century, the French captured Brescia and incorporated it into the Cisalpine Republic. The following years were favorable for the city, but it all ended with the fall of Napoleon - in 1814, the Austrians gained power over Brescia.

In 1849, an uprising broke out in Brescia, which lasted for ten days. The city was nicknamed Leonessa d‘ Italy, "Italian Lioness". In 1859, the second war of independence began, and in June Garibaldi troops entered the city, and in 1861 it became part of the united kingdom of Italy.

In the center of Brescia is one of the most interesting archaeological areas of Northern Italy. During the excavations carried out throughout the 19th century, the remains of structures of the Roman period were found - the forum, the Capitoline temple, the theater, the basilica, as well as villas with mosaics and frescoes.

Tourist office of Brescia

• Piazza della Loggia, 6
• 030 240 03 55
• Mon–Sat 09.30–18.30

Tourist itinerary in Brescia:

1. capitoline temple

Forum(I century), the center of public life during the Roman Empire, was located at the intersection of modern Via dei Musei(Via dei Museums) and via Agostino Gallo(Via Agostino Gallo). In the northern part of the forum is located Capitoline Temple (1)(I century). At the turn of the 4th-5th centuries, the temple was badly damaged by fire, and only in 1830 it was restored. The staircase, columns of the portico and three powerful gates have been preserved to this day. The exposition also includes slabs with epitaphs and Roman stelae.

On the south side of the forum stood basilica, fragments of which were preserved in the wall of the building on Piazza Labus(Piazza Labus).

2. Palazzo Martinengo

The facade goes to the forum Palazzo Martinengo (2) (Palazzo Martinengo, XVII century), where art exhibitions and events are now taking place.

3. Ercole Tower

Not far from the square at the intersection via Cattaneo(Via Cattaneo) and via Cereto(Via Cereto) rises Ercole tower (3) (Torre d’ Ercole, "Tower of Hercules" XII century). During its construction, the stone of the nearby temple of Hercules was used.

4. Theater Ruins of Brescia

Na Via dei Musei interesting theater ruins (4)(III century), from which a part of the stage and the auditorium has been preserved. The theater accommodated 15,000 spectators and was the third largest in northern Italy after theaters and Pula (now in Croatia). Despite the fact that the building was badly damaged in the 5th century by an earthquake, it was used for public meetings until the Renaissance.

5. Monastery of Santa Giulia

A little further from the center on the same Via dei Musei located Monastery of Santa Giulia (5) (Monastero di Santa Giulia), founded in 753 by the Lombard king Desiderius. After the French occupation in 1798, the building became the property of the city of Brescia. Now it houses:

City Museum of Brescia(Museo della Citta), where Roman mosaics and monastic treasures are presented, the main of them is golden “ crucifixion of Desiderius"(VIII century), inlaid with precious stones. Here is located Museum of Roman Civilization(Museo Romano) with a rich collection of antique sculpture, mosaics, ceramics and bronze.

IN Basilica of San Salvatore(Basilica di S. Salvatore), which served as a monastery church, preserved fragments of stone carvings and frescoes of the 11th century.

6. Church of San Pietro in Oliveto

Not far from the monastery, on via Castello(Via Castello) stands a white marble Church of San Pietro in Oliveto (6)(Chiesa di S. Pietro in Oliveto), rebuilt in the 16th century in the Renaissance style.

7. Cydney Castle

A little away from via Castello worth Cydney Castle (7) (Castello Cidneo, XIII century). The castle was rebuilt many times, towers have been preserved since the time of construction Mirabella(Torre Mirabella) And Mastio Visconteo(Torre Mastio Visconteo), in the interior of which you can see frescoes of the XIV century.

On the territory of the castle there are two museums and an observatory. Museum of Ancient Weapons(Museo delle Armi Antiche) is located in the Mastio Visconteo tower. The basis of his collection is a private collection of weapons of the XIV-XVII centuries, donated to the city in 1965 by entrepreneur Luigi Marzoli.

IN Museum of the Risorgimento(Civico Museo del Risorgimento) exposed exhibits related to the period of Italian unification.

Along the walls of the castle of Brescia

From the castle you can go down to the Renaissance Piazza della Loggia. It began to be built in 1433, but the square acquired its modern look only by the end of the 16th century. The central building of the square - Palazzo Loggia(Palazzo Loggia, Filippino de Grassi, 1492). Its construction also continued for two centuries, and the famous Italian architects Jacopo Sansovino and Andrea Palladio took part in it.

8. Church of San Faustino in Riposo

Nearby, at the end Via dei Musei, there is a small round church San Faustino in Riposo (8)(Chiesa di S. Faustino in Riposo, XII century) with a Romanesque facade and a Baroque interior.

Piazza Arnaldo(Piazza Arnoldo) is located to the east of the historic center of Brescia. Installed here monument to Arnold of Brescia(Odoardo Tabacchi, 1882) - a religious leader of the 12th century who spoke out against corruption in the church.

9. Brescia Grain Market

Facade stretches along the square Grain market (9) (Mercato Frumentario), buildings in the neoclassical style of the 19th century.

10. Palazzo Tosio

Nearby, on Corso Magenta(corso Magenta), located Palazzo Tosio (10) (Palazzo Tosio), rebuilt in 1840 by a native of Brescia, Podolfo Vantini.

11. Palazzo Pisa

Further by Corso Magenta there is a sample of the "liberty style", Italian modern, - Palazzo Pisa (11) (Palazzo Pisa, Arnoldo Trebesky, 1908).

12. Monte di Pieta

If you return to piazza Arnaldo, along the southern side of the square there are two buildings Monte di Pieta (12)(Monte di Pieta).

« Old building» ( Monte Vecchio di Pieta) dates back to the 15th century, it is decorated with a small loggia. " New building» ( Monte Nuovo di Pieta) was built a century later, as was the section of the wall connecting them, which is the oldest museum of tombstones in Italy. The city council of Brescia decided to collect Roman monuments and their fragments found on the territory of Brescia and in the vicinity, and the finds were preserved by mounting them in a wall under construction.

13. Clock tower

On the eastern side of the square there is a colonnade, in the center of which rises Clock tower (13) (Torre dell’ Orologio, XVI century). The astronomical clock was completed in 1546.

The dial of the watch is decorated with solar and zodiacal signs, at the corners four gilded cherubs symbolize the winds of the four cardinal directions. They crown the tower Macc de le ure(“Mad keepers of time”) - this is how the local dialect calls two metal-covered wooden figures near the bell, which since 1581 have been regularly beating time.

14. Church of San Giuseppe

To the north of the square is the Renaissance Church of San Giuseppe (14) (Chiesa di San Giuseppe, XVI century), where the Diocesan Museum of Religious Art(Museo Diocesano d’ Arte Sacra). Here are exhibited paintings, altars and objects of worship of the XV-XIX centuries from the churches of the diocese of Brescia.

15. Palazzo del Broletto

The oldest public building in Brescia, Palazzo del Broletto (15) (Palazzo del Broletto), stands on piazza Paolo VI(Piazza Paolo VI), named after Battista Montini, a native of the city of Brescia, who became Pope in 1963 under the name of Paul VI. The tower of the palazzo dates back to the 10th century, the facade facing the square with a portico was built in the 17th century.

16 - 17. New and old cathedrals of Brescia

On the square stands a renaissance New Cathedral - Duomo Nuova 16 (Duomo Nuovo, XVII-XIX centuries), where Pope Paul VI was buried, and nearby is Old Cathedral - Duomo Vecchio (17) (Duomo Vecchio, con. 11th century), often called Rotunda(La Rotonda). The cathedral has a round shape in plan, which is uncharacteristic for Romanesque churches. In the interior are interesting marble Sarcophagus of Berardo Maggi, Bishop of Brescia (1298-1308), who put an end to the war between the Ghibellines and the Guelphs, a reliquary (XV century) with a particle of the Holy Cross, wooden seats in the choir (XVI century) and baroque frescoes.

18. Quirinian Library

Na via Mazzini(via Mazzini), running along the rear facades of Broletto and the New Cathedral, rises a strict-looking building Quirinian Libraries (18)(Biblioteca Queriniana), created by the Bishop of Brescia, Angelo Quipini, in 1749. The collection of the library has hundreds of thousands of volumes, including rare and valuable manuscripts.

19. Palazzo del Poste

Piazza della Vittoria(Piazza della Vittoria) was built in 1932 in a monumental style characteristic of the times of fascist rule. The main buildings of the square - lined with two-color marble Palazzo del Poste (19) (Palazzo del Poste, "Palace of Post"), brick tower Torrione(Torrione, 60 m) and standing opposite revolution tower(Torre Rivoluzione).

20. Ken-Dami Museum

From Piazza della Vittoria goes north corsetto S. Agata(corsetto Sant'Agata), on which is located Ken Dami Museum (20)(Museo Ken Damy), dedicated to contemporary photography. Exhibitions of famous Italian and foreign photographers are also held here.

21. Church of San Giovanni Evangelista

Not far from the museum, Ken Dami stands Church of San Giovanni Evangelista (21) (Chiesa di San Giovanni Evangelista, XV century) with a Gothic facade and a Baroque interior. Many works of art by local artists are stored here, in particular, Girolamo Romanino (1485-1566), Moretto da Brescia (1490-1554) and Francesco Paglia (1636-1713).

22. Pallat Tower

At the crossroads Corso Mameli(corso Mameli) and via Pace(via Pace) is one of the symbols of the city of Brescia, medieval Pallat tower (22) (Torre Pallata, 31 m, XIII century). Fontan Bbutnyadore(Fontana Bagnadore), arranged in 1596 at its base, allegorically depicts Brescia and its rivers, Harza and Mella.

23. Church of Santa Maria del Carmine

To the north of the Pallata tower on Contrada del Carmine(counterdodel-carmine) is worth Church of Santa Maria del Carmine (23) (Chiesa di S. Maria del Carmine, XV century). The temple was rebuilt many times, but the brick facade retained the features of the Gothic and early Renaissance, and in the interior you can see frescoes of the 15th century.

24. Museum of Natural Sciences

Even further north, outside the historic center of Brescia, is located Mesui of natural sciences (24) (museo Civico di Scienze Naturali), where mineralogical, paleontological, botanical and zoological collections are presented.

25. Church of San Francesco di Assisi

Several interesting churches are located in the west of Brescia. Late Romanesque Church of San Francesco di Assisi (25) (Chiesa di S. Francesco d'Assisi, XIII century) inside is richly decorated with frescoes by Moretto and Romanino (XVI century).

26. Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli

Renaissance Church of Santa Maria dei Miracoli (26) (Chiesa Santa Maria dei Miracoli, XVI century) with a magnificent facade of the work of Giovanni Antonio Amadeo is located nearby, on Corso Martiri della Liberta(corso Martiri della Liberta). After the Second World War, the church had to be restored, but the bas-reliefs and sculptures on the facade were not damaged. It is said in the city that when Winston Churchill visited Brescia after the war, he was so impressed with the appearance of the temple that he called it one of the most beautiful buildings he had seen in his life.

27. Church of Santi Nazaro e Celso

In the interior of the church FROManti- Hadzapo-uh- Chelso(27) (Chiesa dei Santi Nazaro e Celso, XV-XVII centuries) on Corso Matteotti(Corso Matteotti) you can see marble altars in the late Baroque style and Titian's Averoldi Polyptych (1522).

28. Monastery of Santi Cosma e Damiano

Inner courtyard of the monastery FROManti- TOocma-uh- Damiano(28) (Monastero Santi Cosma e Damiano, XV century) on Via dei Mille(Videi-Mille) serves as a memorial - the names of the inhabitants of the city who died during the First World War are engraved on its columns. The monastery itself now belongs to the Greek Orthodox Church.

Attractions in Brescia:

Palazzo Martinengo

• Via dei Musei, 28
• Tue–Sun 09.30–19.30

Museum of Santa Giulia

• Ticket offices close 1 hour before the closing of the museum
• Closed Mon.
• Tickets: € 10.00, 14 - 18 years old and over 65 - € 5.50, children 6 - 13 years old: € 3.00

City Museum Museum of Roman Civilization

Via Musei 55 25121 Brescia

• 1 Oct - 15 June: Wee - Sun 9:30 - 17:30
• June 16 - September 30: Tue - Sun 10:30 - 19:00
• January 1: 12:00 - 17:30
• closed on Mon.
• Tickets: € 8.00, 6 - 13 years old - € 3.00
• Parco archeologico di Brescia romana + Museo di Santa Giulia: € 15
• Brescia Roman archaeological park + Santa Giulia Museum + Museum of Luigi Marzoli Weapons (valid for 2 days, from Tue to Sun) - € 20, 14 - 18 years old and over 65 years old - € 12, children 6 - 13 years old - € 8

Museum of ancient weapons in the Castle of Brescia

• Via Castello 9 25121 Brescia
• Closed Mon.

Museum of the Risorgimento

• Via Castello 9 25121 Brescia
• 1 Oct - 15 June: Wee - Sun 9:00 - 16:00
• June 16 - September 30: Tue - Sun 10:00 - 17:00
• Ticket offices close 30 minutes before the museum closes.
• Closed Mon.
• Ticket: Arms Museum + Risorgimento Museum: € 4.00, under 18s and over 65s € 3.00, family ticket € 9.00
• Combined ticket: Museo delle Armi Luigi Marzoli + Museo di Santa Giulia + Brixia-Parco archeologico di Brescia romana (valid for 2 days, from Tue to Sun) - € 20, 14 - 18 years old and over 65 years old - € 12, children 6 - 13 years - € 8

Palazzo Pisa

• Corso Magenta, 29

Diocesan Museum of Religious Art

• Museo Diocesano d'Arte Sacra
• Via Gasparo da Salo, 13, metro stop Vittoria
• hedgehog, except cf. 10:00-12:00 and 15:00-18:00
• Ticket: € 6.00, 6 - 14 years old and pensioners over 65 years old - € 3.00

Quirinian Library

• Via Mazzini, 1

Ken Dami Museum

• Corsetto S. Agata, 22
• Thu–Sat 15.30–19.30 or by appointment

San Giovanni Evangelista

• Contrada San Giovanni, 8

Museum of Natural Sciences of Brescia

• Via Ozanam, 4
• Mon - Sat 9:00 - 19:00, Sun - closed
• Closed: January 1 and 6, February 15, Easter and Monday, April 25, May 1, June 2, August 15, November 1, December 8, 25 and 26.

Photos of Brescia:

Neighborhood of Brescia:

Lake Garda

To the east of the city of Brescia is the most big lake Italy (370 km2) - Garda ( Lago di Garda ), located between the spurs of the Alps and the Po valley. The beaches and resorts of the lake attract vacationers from all over Italy. Ferry lines ( battelo) or hydrofoils ( aliscafo) link the main resort towns coast, their schedule depends on the weather and time of year.

Information about the timetable can be obtained from the tourist offices.

Sirmione

On the peninsula on the south side of the lake is a picturesque city Sirmione(Sirmione). Sirmione was a popular resort already in antiquity, and many wealthy Romans built villas here. Here was the villa of the father of the poet Gaius Valerius Catullus, who praised the Sirmione peninsula as the most beautiful in the world.

Now Sirmione is the center of tourist life south coast lakes.

The city center is closed to all types of transport, except for pedal and horse-drawn vehicles.

The main attractions of the city are the ruins of a Roman villa and a thermal bath under the general name Grotte di Catullo(Grotte di Catullo), And Scaliger Castle(Castello scaligero), built in 1250 by the Scaligers, rulers of Verona. Access is only available on observation deck towers. Near the walls of the castle there is a pier for private boats, where you can take a walk on the lake.

Gardon Riviera

On the west coast Lake Garda is located another popular resort entitled Gardon Riviera(Gardone Riviera).

Here it is Vittoriale(il Vittoriale) - the villa of the famous Italian avant-garde poet Gabriele d'Annunzio (1863-1938). It was rebuilt according to the plans of the poet and is a memorial complex of buildings, gardens and squares dedicated to the memory of the Italians who died in the First World War.

In the Gardon Riviera is also located André Heller Botanical Garden but ( Giardino Botanico Fondazione Andre Heller, landscape park, laid out at the beginning of the 20th century. In 1998, the artist Andre Heller redesigned it and placed a collection of modern sculpture among the trees. The botanical collection contains more than 8,000 trees and shrubs.

At the foot of green hills covered with dense vegetation, at the very beginning of the picturesque Val Trompia, Brescia is often overlooked by travelers who bypass the city itself and head straight for the undeniably beautiful reservoirs. The fact is very sad, as Brescia contains one of the most magnificent historical centers in the region and some of the best preserved Roman and Lombard sites in all of northern Italy.

"Narrow streets meander among the gardens in the mountainous part of the city, while the Loggia, on which almost all the great architects of the Veneto worked up to Sansovino and Palladio, the lovely square in front of it, the porticos of the shops and the Toppe del Orologio with bronze dolls striking in the bell clearly testify that the winged lion of San Marco owns everything here.There is, however, nothing more unexpected than to find in this Venetian environment the remains of the Roman forum and the whole Vespasian temple, now turned into a museum of antiquities and keeping the winged Victory within its walls. There was some kind of first Brescia, late Roman and early Christian, Byzantine and Lombard, neighboring Milan of Ambrose and Ravenna of Galla Placidia. rarity and even sophistication of the monuments that fill its ancient and medieval museums. - Pavel Muratov

Brescia- the second largest settlement, university and industrial city, prosperous and lively.

Brescia is clearly underestimated from a tourist point of view, with many travelers choosing to ignore the magnificence of this city (and its surroundings). Fortunately, UNESCO cannot be blamed for this: the ancient Benedictine monastery of Brescia, Santa Giulia, was included in 2011.

Monastery of Santa Giulia. Thinkstock Photos

And if the beauty of the city was noted by UNESCO experts, why should we, "mere mortals" not notice them? And if cultural and historical sights are not enough motivator for you to visit Brescia, add to them one more weighty reason that is hard to ignore: enogastronomy. Yes, here you will be fed just fine! eat well, very well. A dish that is likely to please everyone? Casoncelli! However, let's slow down - you will still have time to fill your stomach. We suggest returning to food for the soul: so, what to see in the city of Brescia and in its historic center, small and cozy, full of cobbled streets and beautiful panoramas? Looking ahead: all the main attractions of Brescia are located at a short distance from each other. Great start, right?

Brescia will delight the inquisitive tourist! This is a city for culture lovers with a huge number of magnificent old palazzos, museums and squares. In general, this is an ideal city for walking. Small for the most part, the pedestrian historic center of Brescia is full of antique buildings, good shops and medieval squares, tiny cafes and historic restaurants. Unlike many other cities, modernity has hardly touched the "heart" of the city, which gives the Old Town a special atmosphere and appeal.

Evening Brescia. Thinkstock Photos

How to get to Brescia?

By plane

High speed trains (Frecciabianca and Frecciargento) run to Brescia from several major Italian cities.

Brescia. Thinkstock Photos

By bus

From all cities in the province of Brescia and many cities in the surrounding province can be reached by suburban bus lines. For information visit www.trasportibrescia.it . The city's two bus stations are located near Brescia train station.

Terminal Autostazione, via Solferino 6 - tel. 030 44915; Terminal Sia, v.le Stazione 14 - tel. 030 3774237

Where to stay in Brescia?

Piazza del Foro and the Capitol (Piazza del Foro e Tempio Capitolino (Capitolium))

Once Brescia was called Brixia and belonged to the ancient Romans. A place where you can still admire the Roman ruins of the Flavian era is the Forum Square or Piazza del Foro. It is here that the largest Roman archaeological complex in all of Lombardy is located. On the site of Piazza del Foro was the religious and civic center of Brescia during the time of the Roman Empire. In the northern part of the square, in the most visible place, stood the Capitol or Capitoline Temple, with two rows of columns (still preserved), while the Basilica (court) closed the south side.

To the left of the ruins of the Capitoline Temple is the 17th century Palazzo Martinengo Cesaresco, residence of the noble Martinengo Cesaresco family, which now houses the University of Brescia and exhibition halls.

The Forum Square was crossed by the Decumanus Massimo tract, now the Via dei Museums. Today, the eighteenth-century church of San Zeno al Foro stands on this road.

Capitol. Thinkstock Photos

Piazza Duomo or Piazza Paolo VI

This square of medieval origin is the "heart" of the city, here are all the important historical buildings, symbols of civil liberties and the religious traditions of Brescia. On the east side of the square is the Palazzo Broletto, a civil tower, as well as two city cathedrals- New Cathedral (Duomo Nuovo) and Old Cathedral (Duomo Vecchio). Palazzo Broletto is the oldest public building in the city, seat of civil magistrates. It occupies a whole block: especially impressive is its central courtyard, built in several stages, from the Middle Ages until the 17th century, when its northern portico was realized. Today it houses the prefecture and the regional administration.

The Old Cathedral of Brescia is a stone building often referred to as the Rotunda because of its round shape. The cathedral still preserves in its interior the mosaics of an early Christian basilica, on the site of which the Duomo was built. Don't miss the magnificent sarcophagus of Berardo Maggi, Bishop of Brescia and first citizen of the city. It is made of Verona red marble and richly and elegantly decorated. The sarcophagus is right at the entrance, you can't miss it.

Old Cathedral of Brescia. Thinkstock Photos

The new Duomo or Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta is located to the left of the old one. This is the main temple of Brescia, the interior of which houses some of the most valuable works of art, including the Ark of San Apollonia, stored in the third chapel to the right of the south aisle. Of course, the new dome of the cathedral is also worth noting: it is the third largest in Italy after and.

New Cathedral of Brescia. Thinkstock Photos

Piazza della Loggia

most beautiful square of the city, undoubtedly, is the Piazza della Loggia, the project of which was developed in the middle of the Renaissance, and at the end of the fifteenth century its actual implementation began.

The square soon became the real "heart" of the city due to its location and the Palazzo della Loggia, a sumptuous Renaissance building that was completed in 1574 under the direction of Philippine dei Grassi. The Palazzo della Loggia has been the seat of the city's administrative life for many years. The palace is decorated with beautiful statues and astronomical clock sixteenth century.

Palazzo della Loggia. Thinkstock Photos

The square is surrounded by beautiful buildings of the sixteenth century, built in the Venetian style, while in front of the Palazzo della Loggia, in the eastern part of the square, there are Renaissance arcades, topped by the "torretta dell" Orologio tower, so named for the presence of antique clock of 1546, decorated by hand.

Antique clock. Thinkstock Photos

Brescia Castle (Il Castello di Brescia)

At the top of the Chidneo hill rises a defensive fortress, which is one of the largest and best preserved in Northern Italy. The complex, dominated by the Mirabella Tower, houses two museums: the Risorgimento Museum and the Weapons Museum, where you can still trace the glorious past of the Venetian Republic that ruled the city for four centuries (the majestic front door is surmounted by the Lion of San Marco).

To get to the castle, you have to take a walk up: you can start the path, which lasts about 15 minutes, both from the Santa Giulia complex and from other parts of the city.

Needless to say, from the castle you can enjoy amazing views of the city, especially at sunset. Very romantic.

Brescia castle. Thinkstock Photos

Church of St. Francis of Assisi (Chiesa di San Francesco d "Assisi)

Built in 1254-1265, with additions in later centuries, this magnificent church with a beautiful marble portal belongs to the transitional style between Romanesque and Gothic. The interior of the basilica is simple and austere, just as rich and important is the graphic design of this church: on the right wall you can observe a cycle of interesting frescoes of the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries, which originally covered the entire surface.

Querinian Library and Bishop's Palace (Biblioteca Queriniana e Palazzo Vescovile)

The Querinian Library was founded in 1747 by Cardinal Angelo Maria Querini, Bishop of Brescia and a passionate bibliophile: he donated his own bibliographic collections to the library and also invited the architect Marchetti Brescia to build to house the library magnificent palace called Episcopal. The library was opened to the public in 1750 almost simultaneously with the "Braidense" library of Milan.

Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo

Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo, located southeast of the historic center of Brescia on the territory of the monastery of St. Euphemia (Monastero SantEufemia della Fonte), was opened to the public in 1851 in Palazzo Tosio. The art museum was formed thanks to the gifts of Count Paolo Tosio, to which were subsequently added several dozen canvases and other exhibits from the destroyed places of worship in Brescia. In 1884, Count Martinengo donated a library to the municipality, as well as his own palace, it was here that in 1908 a joint art gallery, the Tosio Martinengo Pinacoteca, was opened.

The Pinakothek collection contains two of the most valuable paintings by Raphael, works by Luca Giordano, Girolamo Romanino, Giacomo Ceruti, Lorenzo Lotto and other famous painters.

Pinacoteca Martinengo. Thinkstock Photos

Market Square (Piazza del Mercato)

Originating in medieval times after the demolition of houses dating back to the twelfth century, this area has long been "reserved" for the clothing and linen market, and from the end of the 15th century, shops under the arched galleries appeared here. In the second half of the sixteenth century, the architect Ludovico Beretta was commissioned to complete the north side of the square, where he built a Renaissance palazzo with massive arcades. In 1608, Pier Maria Bagnadore built here a small church, Santa Maria del Lino, which houses an image that is considered miraculous. In 1675, the square was extended to the west, where the Palazzo Martinengo Palatine, an elegant baroque palace crowned with harmonious statues of Minerva and Mars, was built. Currently, the rector of the State University of Brescia sits here.

Market Square. Thinkstock Photos

Torre della Palata

This tower, one of the emblems of the city, was built in 1248 and is one of the most important monuments of Brescia of the medieval period. Built using the remains of Roman buildings along pre-existing medieval walls to protect the gate called Porta San Giovanni, the tower is 31 meters high and has a square base diameter of 10.6 meters. In different centuries, the tower played the role of the city's treasury, food warehouse and even a prison. The bell tower was added to the tower in the fifteenth century, while in the sixteenth century the fountain of peace, designed in 1596 by the architect Pietro Maria Bagnatore, was built into the base of the tower.

Torre della Palata. Thinkstock Photos

Church of Santa Maria del Carmine

A fine example of Gothic architecture in Brescia, built between 1429-1475. next to a Carmelite monastery built nearby in the fourteenth century. The Lombardo-Gothic church was partially modified in the sixteenth century: the original lancet arches of the temple turned into windows.

Church of the Madonna del Carmine. Thinkstock Photos

Piazza Vittoria

Piazza Vittoria was built in the neoclassical style by the chief architect of the Mussolini era - Marcello Piacentini - in 1932. The central building of the square is the Postal Palace, Palazzo delle Poste, on both sides of which rise two towers, the 60-meter Torrione and the Revolution Clock Tower, from the podium of which Mussolini spoke.

Church of San Cristo

The church of San Cristo is part of a monastery built at the end of the 15th century on the foundations of previously destroyed religious buildings from the Roman period. A simple brick facade and a marble door with decorative reliefs and coats of arms of Martinengo hide a single-nave richly decorated interior: all the walls of the church are covered with beautiful frescoes of the 15th and 16th centuries.

Near the church there is a monastery, from the porch of which a magnificent panorama of the city opens.

Lake Garda and Lake Iseo

Brescia is reputed to be an excellent starting point for exploring the magnificent landscapes of lake Italy. is the largest lake in Italy, well known for the beautiful borgos and towns that line its shores, while Iseo is the choice of tourists who want to relax and enjoy the tranquility. On lakes Garda and Iseo, you can not only immerse yourself in the bewitching nature, but also engage in active species water sports like windsurfing or sailing.

Getting from Brescia to Lake Garda is easy: regular trains take you to Desenzano in 15 minutes.

There are also trains to Iseo from Brescia.

Magic lake Iseo. Thinkstock Photos

Holidays Brescia

Throughout the months of the year, Brescia is alive with events, fairs and festivals, complemented by a rich cultural calendar filled with numerous exhibitions and concerts.

During the first month of the year, the city hosts an antiques market: an ideal place for those who love antiques or those who are looking for curious objects.

In the province of Brescia, in Desenzano, on January 6 (Theophany Day) the Procession of the Three Kings (Processione dei tre Re) takes place.

On February 15, the city hosts the feast of the patron saints of Brescia, San Faustino and Giovita: an extensive fair is organized in the historic center of Brescia, which many tourists come to visit every year.

Also in February-March, a carnival is celebrated in Brescia and the province: the most striking is the procession in Ponte Caffaro - Bagoss Carnevale - with dances and songs, a parade of "floats", tastings.

Don't miss one of the most popular sporting events in Lombardy - the Mille Miglia. The most popular motor race has been held in Italy every May since 1927. Rare race cars of the GT class, released before 1957, participate in it, although earlier the race gave a "start in life" to such famous brands as Alfa Romeo, Maserati, Ferrari and Porsche.

The name "Mille Miglia" means "thousand miles" and that's how long the participants in this exciting historical car race travel from Brescia to Rome and back. The parade of classic cars that inaugurates each race is also magnificent. No wonder "Mille Miglia" has earned the honorary title "The most beautiful car race in the world"!

In July, Desenzano del Garda hosts the "Summer Carnival", full of music, sports and folklore events.

What to try in Brescia?

Brescia's cuisine is well known for its authenticity and wide variety of dishes, thanks to the city's unique location - close to rivers, lakes, plains, hills and mountains. The range of local gastronomic products is really huge: meat, fish, cheese, olive oil and, of course, wines originating from the famous area of ​​Franciacorta.

Photo pinterest.com

The most popular dishes of the provincial cuisine of Brescia are grilled meats, stews, risotto and polenta. Gourmets will certainly enjoy venison and local sausages. The proximity of the lakes will also give pleasure to lovers of fish dishes: carp, trout, eel are stuffed, baked, dried in the sun and cooked on the grill. Polenta, once a daily meal of the common people, still serves as an indispensable accompaniment to most meat and fish dishes or cheeses from the valleys such as "Bagòss", formaggella di Tremosine and Rosa Camuna. Among the first courses, we recommend trying "Casonsèi", large dumplings stuffed with egg, cheese, spinach and meat.

Brescia is also the land of vineyards that have grown here since Roman times and have made Brescia the second largest wine producer in the world.

The most prestigious and famous wine from these parts is Franciacorta, the Queen of Bubbles, the first Italian sparkling wine to receive the DOCG mark.

Shopping in Brescia

The city of Brescia, despite its small size, has a lot to offer tourists who consider themselves true shopping-addicts.

Brescia is home to a number of well-known fashion designers, and this has left a peculiar fashion mark on the city. On many large areas and streets such as Corso Palestro, Corso Zanardelli and Piazza della Loggia, you will find boutiques of the most famous brands of clothing and jewelry.

The most important shopping streets in the center of Brescia are: Via Gramsci, Corso Magenta, Via Mazzini and Via X Giornate.

If you are interested in antiques, we recommend the areas around Via Trieste, Via Tosio, Via Dei Musei and Via Cattaneo: there are many antique shops and art galleries. If you prefer shopping in the markets, the largest one is open until 20.00.

On the second weekend of every month, you can visit the antique market in Piazza della Vittoria.

We remind lovers of fashion and style that not far from Brescia is the famous Franciacorta Outlet Village, Franciacorta Outlet Village, which we talked about in detail.