Città Alta

Medieval beauty in Bergamo's historic centre

The Upper Town (“Città Alta") is the ancient city of Bergamo’s most striking district, surrounded by 16th century defensive Venetian walls. Its name literally translates to “high city”, and you’ll see why. You can reach the old town via a funicular that carries you up through a tunnel to the hilltop district.

The walls that encircle the Città Alta were never used for their intended purpose, as Bergamo managed to avoid any conflicts. This means they are some of today’s best-preserved Venetian city walls. Take a walk along some of the 6.5-kilometre (4-mile) circuit and admire views of the Lower Town (“Citta Bassà”) sprawling below.

In the Upper Town, you’ll find numerous other historical sites, famed for their storied pasts as well as for their beauty. Make sure to visit the Piazza Duomo, home to several ancient places of worship including Bergamo Cathedral, the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and Colleoni Chapel.

As well as history, you can dive into local culture in the Città Alta. The medieval streets and buildings give the city an enchanting atmosphere, and you’ll be able to imagine what it was like hundreds of years ago. Be sure to sample some local food and pick up some charming souvenirs from the quaint shops that line the streets.

The heart of the district is the Piazza Vecchia, where the Romans once gathered for markets and governing. Look out for the Contarini Fountain, donated to the city in 1780, and the New Palace (“Palazzo Nuovo”). This was once Bergamo’s Town Hall, but is now Angelo Mai Library, one of the most extensive literary collections in Italy.