7 Must-see Spots Of Brescia, Italy

7 must-see spots of Brescia, Italy

By Anna Purpurpurpur

Brescia, a gorgeous city in the north of Italy is frequently skipped by tourists, although it is a fantastic destination to explore the history from the Roman past of Brixia, through Venetian rule, French conquest and Austrian control till the turbulent 20th century.

Did you know that it was even nicknamed Lioness of Italy because of its resistance to Austrians during the Ten days of Brescia in 1849?

The place hides many tourist attractions, and is conveniently situated between Milan and Verona. It’s also been named the Italian Capital of Culture 2023!

If you’re visiting during the Ferragosto, as we did, chances are that some of the museums might be closed or have a special timetable (for instance, for this reason we didn’t get to visit famous monumental Santa Giulia Museum covering the history of Brescia from 4th millennium BC to the 18th century). However there are still lots of things to explore!

Scroll down to see my selection of landmarks to see in Brescia.

1. Explore Brescia Castle

Brescia Castle sitting high on the Cidneo hill is a stunning mediaeval fortress located right on the site where the first inhabitants of the city lived in the bronze century. Various structures of this complex were created between the 14th and 16th centuries.

The fantastic mighty ramparts of San Faustino and San Marco created in the 16th century during the Venetian rule are really impressive. Moreover, you can also explore here the dungeons, astronomical observatory, Luigi Marzoli Arms Museum and a locomotive given to SNFT in 1906! And of course, an unbeatable view over the red-tiled panorama of Brescia is worth climbing all the steps!

2. Explore the Roman past of the city

There are a few remains left of the Roman time when the city was called Brixia, with some enlisted as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

This includes the archaeological area around Piazza del Foro, where you can find the ruins of the Roman Forum, Roman Basilica, Capitolium Temple dating to the 1st century that used to be a site for worshipping Jupiter, Juno and Minerva, with the Sanctuary. The Roman theatre is located nearby.

3. Visit the Piazza Paolo VI

Piazza Paolo VI, also known as Piazza dei due Duomi, or Square of the Two Cathedrals, is probably the most important square of Brescia.

As its name suggests, there are two cathedrals. Gorgeous baroque New Cathedral (Duomo Nuovo), is officially known as the Summer Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and its construction took from 1604 to 1825. It has amazing interior – don’t miss the opportunity to visit it.

The Romanesque Old Cathedral (Duomo Vecchio), officially known as Winter Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, is a fantastic circular building dating to the 11th century. Come visit the crypt if you have time, and admire beautiful pieces of art there which include works of Romanino, Moretto and Cossali (unfortunately, during our visit it was closed). Torre del Pégol makes a perfect photo spot for all photography enthusiasts!

4. Walk up to Piazza della Loggia

Just a stone throw away from the cathedrals, you’ll find Piazza della Loggia. Palazzo Loggia, which gate the square its named, was built in 1492 – 1570 and definitely carries some Venetian vibes.

On the other side you will see a magnificent the 16th century Clock Tower, Torre dell’Orologio tower, decorated with an astronomical clock, and Monte di Pietà palace. Also spot some ancient stones on the sides of the square: those are the gravestones dating to the Roman times. This square is also sadly known for the events of the 70s, when a bomb exploded in the mid of anti-fascist demonstration.

5. Do some shopping

Brescia is a great place for shopping!

Come to Corso Martiri della Libertà, Corso Magenta, Corso Zanardelli and Via XX Giornate to admire the architecture, get a coffee and to acquire some goods.

6. Get introduced to the fascist architecture at Piazza della Vittoria

In 1928 – 1932, to monumentalise the power of the fascist state, mediaeval buildings of Pescherie district, the very centre of Brescia, were removed, and on their place Piazza della Vittoria was erected. If not to think about the background of it, the square is stunningly made!

You can spot here one of the first skyscrapers of Italy, 15-floor high Istituto Nazionale Assicurazioni, Revolution Tower, red brick Arengario, a decorated stand for public speeches, and the colonnaded Post Office Building. This is the third largest square of the city, and I’d definitely suggest you to visit it.

7. Have a break at a historical cafe

Caffè Impero located on Piazza Vittoria opened in 1932 (it was named Gran Caffè for the first three years since the opening) is the site for you if you’re looking for a place with the historical heritage. It has also undergone a recent restoration.

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