The best things to do in Brescia
Brescia, a city in northern Italy, is often overlooked by tourists in favor of its more famous neighbors, Milan and Venice. However, this charming city has a lot to offer, from its rich history and culture to its beautiful architecture and delicious food. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, Brescia has something for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Brescia.
Explore the Roman ruins
Brescia was an important Roman city and there are many well-preserved ruins to explore. The most famous of these is the Capitolium, a large temple complex that was dedicated to Jupiter, Juno and Minerva. The complex includes a temple, a theater, and a forum, and is a great place to learn about Roman history and architecture. Other notable Roman ruins in Brescia include the Roman Amphitheater, which is one of the best-preserved in Italy, and the Arco di Tito, an ancient arch that dates back to the 1st century AD.
Visit the Duomo Vecchio
The Duomo Vecchio, or Old Cathedral, is one of the most important religious buildings in Brescia. It was built in the 12th century and is a great example of Romanesque architecture. The cathedral is home to many beautiful works of art, including frescoes and sculptures, and is also the final resting place of Saint Faustina, a martyr who is said to have been killed by the Romans in the 4th century.
See the Castle of Brescia
The Castle of Brescia is a must-see for history buffs. This impressive fortress was built in the 12th century and has been used as a military fortress, a prison, and a palace over the centuries. Today, it is open to the public and visitors can explore the castle’s many towers, courtyards, and underground tunnels. The castle also offers great views of the city and is a great place to learn about Brescia’s history and its role in the wars of the Middle Ages.
Visit the Santa Giulia Museum
The Santa Giulia Museum is one of the most important museums in Brescia. It is housed in a former monastery and is home to a wide range of artifacts, including Roman and medieval art, archaeology, and natural history. The museum is particularly known for its collection of Lombard art and artifacts, which date back to the 6th and 7th centuries.
Taste the local food
Brescia is known for its delicious food and there are many great places to eat in the city. Some of the local specialties include casoncelli (a type of pasta), polenta, and various types of meat. The city is also home to many wine bars and enotecas, where you can sample the local wines and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions.
Relax in the city parks
Brescia is home to many beautiful parks and gardens, which are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the fresh air. Some of the most popular parks include the Parco dei Colli, which offers great views of the city and the surrounding countryside, and the Giardini Pubblici, which is home to a wide range of plants and flowers. The Parco delle Groane is also a great place to take a stroll, admire the nature and the beautiful gardens.
Take a day trip to Lake Iseo
Lake Iseo is a beautiful lake located just a short drive from Brescia. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery, and is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. The lake is also home to several small towns and villages, such as Sarnico and Iseo, which are worth visiting for their charming streets and local markets. One of the highlights of Lake Iseo is the island of Montisola, which is the largest lake island in Europe and can be reached by ferry from several towns on the lake’s shore.
Visit the Piazza della Loggia
The Piazza della Loggia is one of the most important squares in Brescia. It is home to several important buildings, including the Palazzo della Loggia, which was built in the 16th century and is now the town hall. The square is also home to several statues and fountains, and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
See the Museo di Santa Giulia
The Museo di Santa Giulia is another important museum in Brescia. It is located in the Santa Giulia complex and is home to a wide range of artifacts, including Roman and medieval art, archaeology, and natural history. The museum is particularly known for its collection of Lombard art and artifacts, which date back to the 6th and 7th centuries.
Visit the Brescia Underground
Brescia has a unique underground system that is worth visiting. The underground system is a network of tunnels and caves that were carved out of the rock beneath the city. They were used for various purposes over the centuries, including as a means of defense, a source of water, and a place of refuge during bombing raids in World War II. Today, the underground system is open to the public and offers an interesting glimpse into the city’s history and culture.
Attend a concert or show at Teatro Grande
Teatro Grande is a beautiful theater located in the heart of Brescia. It was built in the 18th century and is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful decoration. The theater is home to a wide range of performances, including plays, concerts, and ballets, and is a great place to experience the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene.
In conclusion, Brescia is a city with a rich history and culture, and it offers plenty of things to see and do. From exploring ancient Roman ruins to visiting charming squares and museums, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. And if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or a delicious meal, Brescia has plenty of parks and restaurants to choose from. So, pack your bags and head to Brescia for an unforgettable trip.
