We’ve long known Milan as the fashion capital of the world. The city’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, a luxury shopping complex, is home to many big designer brands. However, Northern Italy offers much more than just Milan’s Duomo.
Boasting a history dating back to 753 BC and inhabited for over 850,000 years, Italy is a destination known for its museums, cathedrals, churches, and more. On this trip, I ventured to the Brescia province near Milan, an ancestral town less touristy than Milan. In fact, most Italians I spoke with had yet to explore Brescia, which is also part of the Lombardy region.
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To reach Brescia, I boarded a local train from Milan Centrale railway station. This station is a sight to behold, with its beautiful and elegant architecture rivaling many tourist attractions worldwide. The 70-minute train ride cost just €7.5 and offered a glimpse into local life. Amidst reading, chatting, and enjoying the ride, I hardly noticed any tourists. The view outside was breathtaking, overlooking farms, factories, canals, and the elegant Alps mountains.
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Nestled in Lombardy, Brescia is the region’s second-largest city, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors. However, this hidden gem has much to offer, including a rich history and picturesque surroundings. It has been a major industrial hub since pre-Roman times.
History enthusiasts will be thrilled by Brescia’s well-preserved Roman ruins, such as the Capitolium and the Teatro Romano. The Capitolium, a temple dedicated to the Capitoline Triad of Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva, stands as a testament to the city’s ancient past. The Teatro Romano, an ancient Roman theater, provides a glimpse into Brescia’s theatrical traditions.
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Capriano del Colle, a small commune known for its wineries, houses the municipal department in Palazzo Bocca, a building with rich heritage dating back to the late 17th century. I had the pleasure of enjoying a meal, courtesy of the Italian Trade Agency, in this beautiful landmark building.
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A highlight of visiting Brescia is a trip to Lake Garda, a short drive away. Italy’s largest lake, Lake Garda, is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque towns. Sirmione, with its medieval castle and natural hot springs, is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation.
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For wine lovers, a visit to Ca’del Bosco is a must. This renowned winery produces Franciacorta sparkling wines using the traditional Champagne method. Visitors can tour the vineyards and cellars and enjoy a tasting of the winery’s exquisite wines. The vineyard’s beauty rivals that of any tourist destination, with the bottling plant and cellar areas artistically designed. This destination deserves at least half a day of your time and is one of the most beautiful vineyards I’ve visited.
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No visit to Brescia is complete without exploring the iconic Vittoria Alata, or Winged Victory, a stunning marble statue dating back to the Roman era. This masterpiece, depicting the goddess Nike, is a symbol of Brescia’s rich history and is housed in the city’s Santa Giulia Museum, located in a former monastery with roots tracing back to the 8th century.
Just a short distance from Brescia lies the serene beauty of the Iseo Lake area, surrounded by picturesque towns like Iseo and Sarnico. This area offers a peaceful retreat from city life, with leisurely walks along the lake, exploration of charming villages, and savoring of delicious local cuisine. Monte Isola, Italy’s largest lake island, is a must-visit, offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.
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Brescia offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. Whether exploring ancient ruins, relaxing by Lake Garda, or sipping fine wine at Ca’del Bosco, Brescia is sure to enchant you.
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This article first appeared in The Pioneer