10 things to see in Trento and Brescia (Second part)

A warm welcome to the second part of the article: 10 things to see in Trento and Brescia. If you missed the first part, you can find it here!

The strategic position of our campsite on Lake Idro, halfway between the cities of Trento and Brescia, makes us a perfect starting point for your daily excursions to the two capitals.

10 things to see in Brescia

Welcome to Brescia, the Lombard capital of almost 200,000 inhabitants, a city rich in history, culture and art. From the capital of the Gauls to a Roman colony to then become part of the kingdom of Venice and from 1815 to 1859 an Austrian territory. All of these influences are clearly visible in the various architectural styles that have followed one another over the course of 3,000 years.  

1. The Santa Giulia complex
   
   The Santa Giulia complex is the most important museum in the city and contains pieces and treasures of incalculable historical value. What you can admire here: the Cross of Desiderius, the frescoes of the Nuns' Choir, the remains of the ancient Roman Domus and the interiors of the Basilica of San Salvatore. 
   
   
2. The Archaeological Park
   
   The Roman presence is clearly visible in the Archeological Park, which was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2011. The UNESCO site includes: the Piazza del Foro, the Capitolium, the Republican Sanctuary, the ancient theater, the Roman Basilica and the monumental complex of San Salvatore-Santa Giulia.
   
   
   Did you know that the park in Brescia is the largest Roman Archaeological Park in northern Italy? 
3. Brescia Castle
   
   A 15-minute walk from the historic center will take you to Brescia Castle. The imposing fortress, which was built between the years 1,300 and 1,500 on Colle Cidneo, enjoys a fantastic view over the city. Inside you will find the first public astronomical observatory in Italy, some beautiful railway models and the Luigi Marzoli weapons museum.
   
   
   Book a guided tour with the Associazione Speleologica of Brescia so that you don't miss out on the most intricate corners of the castle. 
4. The Queriniana Library
   
   Nerve center of Brescia, the Queriniana Library boasts a literary heritage of over 500,000 works. Founded by Cardinal Querini in 1747 inside the Bishop's Palace, the library was modernized following the damage suffered during Second World War.
   
   
5. The Piazza Paolo VI
   
   The heart of Brescia's nightlife, this square, also known as Piazza Duomo, is home to the buildings that symbolize the power of the medieval city, first of all the Broletto, seat of the Prefecture and a number of municipal offices.
   Did you know that Piazza Paolo VI is the only Italian square to have two cathedrals? Duomo nuovo and Duomo vecchio.
6. The Piazza Loggia
   
   Shopping center and seat of the municipal administration, Piazza Loggia is a combination of different styles, among which the Venetian one stands out. The ancient astronomical clock sits above the arcades, displaying the time, the phases of the moon and the signs of the zodiac. The Monument to Bella Italia and the majestic old Palazzo Monte di Pietà are also worth seeing.
   
   
   
   
7. L'ancient Carmine district
   
   A few steps from Piazza Loggia, this area is very popular with students. Characterized by old streets and surprising views, the Carmine district is full of historic buildings, churches, taverns and little bars to enjoy a nightcap. 
   
   
8. The Great Theater
   
   City Center of opera music and ballet, Teatro Grande is one of the most important Italian theaters. The various events held here attract tens of thousands of people from all over the world every year.
   
   
   The theater opens its doors in summer with the Grand Tour during which you can discover what goes on behind the scenes and the operation of the theatrical machine. 
9. The Palazzo Tosio
   
   Passionate about art, Count Paolo Tosio had Palazzo Tosio designed by the architect and engineer Rodolfo Vantini. Inside this sumptuous and elegant building there is the important art collection of the Tosio spouses, among which works by artists such as Raffaello, Lotto and Morello currently housed in the Tosio Martinengo Art Gallery stand out. The museum can be visited by appointment.
   
   
10. The Tosio Martinengo Art Gallery
    
    One of the most important art galleries in Northern Italy, the Tosio Martinengo Art Gallery boasts works by artists of the caliber including: Raffaello, Foppa, Savoldo, Moretto, Romanino, Lotto, Hayez, Canova as well as the greatest exponents of Renaissance Brescia painting. The great protagonist is Giacomo Ceruti whose works are on display in a room entirely dedicated to the Milanese artist. 

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