Province of Brescia, Lombardy, Italy
We were up early this morning to explore the historical
sites and other attractions of Brescia. Starting back in Paolo VI Square by visiting
the two cathedrals we admired last night as we sat enjoying our aperitifs. The
first one visited, the Duomo Vechio (Old Cathedral), a Romanesque church also
known as the Rotonda, dates back to the 11th century. It astounded us with its
age, state of preservation and the beauty and historical significance of its
inclusions. We then explored the 16 to 19th century Duomo Nuova (New
Cathedral), an impressive baroque style building. However, we were still
marvelling over what we’d seen in the Old Cathedral such that this one left a
much diminished impression.
We then headed off to tour UNESCO World Heritage Listed
sites, the Brescia Archaeological Park and the Santa Giulia museum. In Roman
times, Brescia or Brixia as it was then called, located along the ancient Roman
Road via Gallica was one of the most important cities of northern Italy. The
ancient and most important buildings of this time can still be seen in this
archaeological area.
San Salvatore-Santa Guilia with its 14,000 m² of
exhibition space displays some 11,000 pieces of ancient artefacts, portraits,
bronzes, funeral objects mosaics, frisco and other masterpieces from as early
as the 22nd century BC. Some of its exhibits just blew us away. They are so
well preserved, and so carefully and professionally
maintained and displayed. Viewings of some ancient valuable exhibits are conducted
via airtight chambers and limited to just half a dozen visitors at any one
time.
We again enjoyed a cocktail hour drink in the Paolo VI Square
before enjoying an amazing meal at a beautifully classic Italian restaurant in
one of the busy crowded laneways adjacent to the square. Following dinner, we
promenaded around the adjacent lanes and squares and couldn’t get over the
number of people noisily but happily enjoying Friday evening at the multitude
of restaurants and outdoor cafes. Everywhere was busy, but not unpleasantly overcrowded
as was Varenna and Bellagio yesterday.
We wandered into the Loggia Square dominated by the
Palazzo Della Loggia constructed in the 15th century just in time to see the 2
male figures that surmount the 16 century clocktower strike the hour. This
square was also busy with hundreds of patrons noisily enjoying their evening
meal at the many open air restaurants. We were then delighted to hear a live
orchestral concert underway behind the arches of the Palazzo. We spent the rest
of our evening enjoying the music whilst marveling at just how attractive and
inviting a city Brescia is.
Philip Rose
2024-06-17
What a wonderful holiday. Glad you are enjoying it so much.Stunning Italian architecture and gorgeous food. Whats not to love. Look forward to your return.
Michael
2024-06-18
Apart from a missing toilet seat Brescia seems the perfect destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. I’m glad you have struck paradise.
Fiona!
2024-06-20
What a fabulous trip! I do hope you will manage to visit Sirmione whilst you are in the area - it's only 40mins from Brescia 😊
Anne
2024-06-23
What a beautiful city you have discovered! The Romanesque church & museum exhibits are truly wonderful. After all that exploring I’m so glad you made it to cocktail hour !