Discover Brescia: A Hidden Gem in Northern Italy
Despite its proximity to popular destinations like Lake Garda, Milan, and Venice, Brescia remains one of northern Italy's lesser-known treasures. This city is rich with history, from its Roman roots to its Renaissance splendor, offering a unique opportunity to explore without the usual tourist crowds.
Stroll through the ancient Roman forum and don't miss the chance to visit one of Italy's most comprehensive historical museums, which includes a preserved Roman villa. Brescia's castle and the Renaissance architecture on Piazza della Loggia are testaments to its storied past under Venetian rule.
Top Attractions in Brescia
1. Civici Musei d'Arte e Storia Santa Giulia
At the heart of Brescia is the impressive museum complex of Santa Giulia, set in a former monastery. It showcases Roman mosaics, the bronze Winged Victory, and the Cross of Desiderio, along with medieval and Venetian art.
Address: Via Musei 81, Brescia
2. Tempio Capitolino
This ancient Roman temple, dedicated to Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva, still stands with six Corinthian columns and offers a glimpse into the religious life of Roman Brescia.
Address: Via Musei 57, Brescia
Official site: www.bresciamusei.com
3. Piazza del Foro and Roman Theater
The Piazza del Foro, once a bustling Roman forum, still bears the marks of its grand past, including the Capitolium and the nearby Roman Theater.
4. Duomo Nuovo and Rotonda
The new cathedral stands beside its older counterpart, the Rotonda, a unique circular-shaped cathedral with Romanesque and Lombard influences.
Address: Piazza Paolo VI, Brescia
5. Castello
The castle, a symbol of Brescia's power, now hosts museums showcasing the city's armaments and its role in the Italian unification.
Address: Via Castello 9, Brescia
6. Piazza della Loggia
This picturesque square reflects Brescia's Venetian heritage, with its Renaissance-style Loggia and the iconic clock adorned by wooden figures.
7. Santa Maria della Carità
La Carità is a Baroque masterpiece, with its interior covered in frescoes and gold, and columns that have been repurposed from ancient buildings.
Address: Via dei Musei, Brescia
8. Broletto and Piazza Paolo VI
The 12th-century Broletto, Brescia's old Town Hall, stands in Piazza Paolo VI, a lively square with cafes and stunning views of the city's historic architecture.
Address: Piazza Paolo VI, Brescia
9. Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo
This gallery, housed in a restored palace, features Renaissance art from local masters and notable works by Raphael and Canova.
Address: Piazza Moretto 1, Brescia
10. Brescia Underground
Brescia's underground watercourses, once vital to the city's industry, can now be explored through tours organized by Brescia Underground.
Official site: www.bresciaunderground.com/english
11. Santa Maria dei Miracoli
This church, known for its intricately carved marble façade, was built following a plague to honor a miraculous fresco of the Madonna and Child.
Address: Corso Martiri de la Libertá, Brescia
12. Teatro Grande
The Teatro Grande is an 18th-century theater hosting a variety of performances in its opulent auditorium.
Address: Corso Zanardelli 9a, Brescia
Official site: http://www.teatrogrande.it/en/
Where to Stay in Brescia for Sightseeing
For a comfortable stay, consider these highly-rated hotels and guesthouses in Brescia:
- B&B Corso Matteotti 62: Central location with breakfast included.
- Hotel Ambasciatori: Friendly staff, fitness room, and complimentary breakfast.
- Hotel Master: Budget-friendly with free parking, close to attractions.
- Le Muse Bed and Breakfast: Contemporary décor and a hospitable owner in the old town.
Day Trips from Brescia
Lago d'Iseo (Lake Iseo)
Explore the charming towns around Lake Iseo and the forested Monte Isola with its pilgrimage church offering panoramic views.
Incisioni Rupestri di Naquane (National Park of Rock Art)
Discover prehistoric rock engravings in the Val Camonica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at the Naquane National Park.
Address: Capo di Ponte
Official site: www.archeocamuni.it/naquane_info_en.html
More Related Articles on tripates.com
Explore the northern lakes region from Brescia, including Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, and Lake Como. Visit historic Bergamo or enjoy the urban attractions of Milan.
