Brescia (Italy) is one of the largest settlements in the north of the country. This is not just a major city, but the capital of Lombardy. Without exception, Italians are sure that tourists will not be interested in this industrial center. But you can argue with them. Although the city is considered the center of the Italian metallurgical industry, it is replete with sights, many of which have preserved a very decent appearance since its inception.
Little story of a big city
Once upon a time, the city of Brescia (Italy) was called Brixia, and tsenoman lived in it. This is a people that was known for providing active support to the ancient Romans. The Union contributed to the fact that in a short time Brescia turned into the main city of Transpadan Gaul. This status the settlement had until the fall of the Western Roman Empire. After that, the Huns in a fairly short time plundered Brescia.
Brescia (Italy), despite its difficult situation, managed to revive again: the city was rebuilt and continued to grow rich and prosper. In the XII century, the village turned into a city commune, ruled by small princes, Franks, Ostrogoths and Lombards. In the fourteenth century, Brescia became subordinate to the Visconti dynasty. And already in the 15th century, the Venetian Republic took over the city under its patronage . In 1849, the village was subjected to brutal bombardment, which lasted ten days, but after that he was awarded the title of “Lioness of Italy”.
Kitchen as a business card
Brescia (Italy) is known worldwide for its cuisine. The recipes for the main dishes of this region were formed under the influence of Germany. Here it is more than elsewhere in Italy, manifested in addiction to meat, especially beef, and butter. The local specialties are special dumplings with beef meat, as well as fried pork. Visitors to Brescia's gastronomy are larks baked in butter.
But not only the elaborate delicacies are eaten by the inhabitants of this North Italian city. They also love classic Italian dishes: pizza, polenta and pasta. All these dishes are served in countless city restaurants, cafes and trattorias.
If the signboard of a drinking establishment has the inscription agriturizmo, you can be sure that in this restaurant you will be treated only with traditional and authentic delicacies of Lombardy and Brescia. They are prepared using exclusively local products.
What to see in the city
Brescia (Italy), the photo of which is in the article, is unique in that it is one of the few settlements in the country that managed to preserve the true ancient Roman layout. Presented here are more ancient structures belonging to the era of antiquity. But today, only individual fragments of these objects can be seen.
The central attraction of the village is Piazza del Forro. This object gives an idea of the Roman forum. On the Piazza del Forro, today is the Corinthian temple, dating back to 73 AD. Archaeologists discovered this structure in 1823.
To the east of the ancient Roman Capitol is the Roman amphitheater, which partially hides the Renaissance palace. Today it is considered one of the main attractions of Brescia.
City castle
The city of Brescia, Italy, like any other historical center, boasts a beautiful castle. It is located on a hill that people settled in time immemorial. Scientists have discovered artifacts dating back to the Bronze Age. During the Roman Empire, a majestic temple towered on a hill. During the Middle Ages, basements and the foundation of the building were used to build a powerful military fortification.
The castle was subjected to repeated sieges. It was repeatedly destroyed and erected as many times anew. The oldest part of the object, which managed to survive to our era, is a huge tower of a cylindrical shape - Torre Mirabella. Behind the castle is a beautiful park with spectacular views of Brescia. In the halls there is the Museum of weapons - one of the best in Europe.
Two squares that deserve your attention
Brescia (Italy), the sights of which we are considering, has two more objects that no tourist has the right to miss. This is Loggia Square and Forum Square. The first square is located in the historic center of the village. She is in front of the Loggia Palace. Three buildings with a gallery close it on the south side.
Forum Square in the Roman era was the heart of urban life. It was through it that the main road passed, which connected the village with Verona and Bergamo. On it were the Basilica and the Capitoline Temple. For many years, archaeological excavations have been carried out on the square, and Roman monuments are being recreated from the ruins in parts.