31 July 2024

Bergamo: a journey through art, nature and tradition

From the historical wonders of the Upper Town to the picturesque landscapes of the Bergamo valleys, an experience that combines culture, nature and unique flavors

Nestled in the heart of Lombardy, Bergamo is one of the gems of Northern Italy. With its unique combination of culture, natural landscapes and food and wine traditions, this city enchants visitors of all kinds and backgrounds.

The journey starts from the Upper Town, the medieval village that stands on a hill, protected by mighty Venetian walls, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The cobbled streets lead to the majestic Piazza Vecchia, the historical and architectural heart of the city, where the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Colleoni Chapel stand out. From the top of the Campanone, you can admire a panorama that embraces the whole city, offering a view that takes your breath away.

Going down to the Lower Town, a world of modernity and liveliness opens up. The elegant neighborhoods are home to a myriad of craft shops, fashion boutiques and cozy places where the ritual of the aperitif is celebrated, an all-Italian moment of conviviality. Among these, the Borgo d'Oro stands out as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, home to the Carrara Academy and GAMeC, places of art that house works of great value.

Bergamo is also a city of cultural and musical events. The Donizetti Opera Festival, dedicated to the famous composer from Bergamo, the International Piano Festival of Brescia and Bergamo and the Bergamo Jazz Festival are just some of the events that animate the city during the year. The Forme event celebrates the local dairy heritage that has earned Bergamo the title of Unesco Creative City for Food and Wine: with its 9 PDO cheeses, Bergamo is considered the European Capital of cheeses.

Bergamo's food and wine tradition is rich and varied. Casoncelli, typical stuffed pasta, polenta with rabbit or braised meat, and wines from Val Calepio are just some of the specialties that make this land unique. Moscato di Scanzo, a fine raisin wine, is the flagship of local oenology. And to end on a sweet note, Stracciatella, an ice cream invented in Bergamo, offers an unforgettable taste experience.

Outside the city, the territory offers unspoiled nature, including mountains, valleys and lakes. The Orobie Alps and pre-Alps are an area rich in biodiversity, ideal for hiking and winter sports. Val Brembana, Val Seriana and Val di Scalve are perfect for those looking for authentic contact with nature and historic villages. Do not miss, in February 2025, the opportunity to attend the Nordic World Ski Championships, in Schilpario, a unique event for ski enthusiasts.

During the summer, the Orobie Bergamasche Park offers trekking trails that cross breathtaking landscapes, refuges and ponds. The Orobie Trail, with its 70000 hectares of protected area, is one of the most evocative experiences.

The lakes of Endine and Iseo, a short distance from Bergamo, are two natural gems that are worth a visit. Lake Endine is a small pearl set in the hills, while the larger Lake Iseo offers numerous activities, including water sports and food and wine tastings.

Two unique experiences have been inherited by Bergamo Brescia, Italian Capital of Culture 2023: the Via delle Sorelle, a 130 km route in 6 stages, and the Bergamo Brescia Cultural Cycle Route, a 76 km bidirectional cycle path.

In 2025, the city will be the center of international attention by hosting the 99th edition of the International Six Days of Enduro (ISDE), an event that will celebrate the passion for sport and nature.

With its artistic and cultural heritage, the richness of its cuisine and the offer of events of international importance, Bergamo presents itself as an unmissable destination for those looking for authentic and unforgettable experiences.

Edited by the editorial staff, Avion Tourism Magazine

Text source and photo: Visit Bergamo - Tourism promotion agency of Bergamo and province

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Cappella Colleoni e Basila Santa Maria Maggiore a Bergamo alta. Foto: Copyright © Sisterscom.com / Byvalet / Shutterstock

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