Bergamo Alta: Italy's Most Beautiful Medieval Upper Town

Perched on a hill at 380 meters altitude, Bergamo Alta represents one of Italy's most fascinating and best-preserved medieval towns. Surrounded by the imposing Venetian Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this small city in the heart of Lombardy enchants visitors with its ancient stones, historic palaces, and breathtaking views over the Po Valley.

The Upper Town, as the locals affectionately call it, is a treasure that reveals itself step by step through cobblestone alleys, artisan shops, and charming corners where time seems to have stopped in the Middle Ages. Separated from modern Lower Bergamo, this architectural pearl offers a unique travel experience where history, art, and tradition blend in perfect harmony.

History and Origins of Bergamo Alta

The origins of Bergamo Alta date back to Roman times, when the city of Bergomum was already an important strategic center. However, the current appearance of the town is mainly due to the medieval period and subsequent Venetian rule, which left an indelible mark on its architecture and urban planning.

In the 15th century, under the control of the Serene Republic of Venice, Bergamo Alta experienced a period of great splendor. The Venetians built the mighty defensive walls that still completely surround the historic center today, creating one of Europe's most impressive fortification systems.

The Venetian Walls: UNESCO Heritage

Since 2017, the Venetian Walls of Bergamo have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the serial site "Venetian Works of Defence between the 16th and 17th centuries: Stato da Terra – western Stato da Mar". These fortifications, stretching over 5 kilometers, represent a masterpiece of Renaissance military engineering.

• 14 bastions and 2 platforms
• 4 main access gates
• 5 km panoramic walkway
• Walls Park with green areas

What to See in Bergamo Alta

Piazza Vecchia: Bergamo's Living Room

The beating heart of Bergamo Alta is undoubtedly Piazza Vecchia, defined by Le Corbusier as "one of the most beautiful squares in Europe". This harmonious space, enclosed by buildings from different eras but perfectly integrated, represents the perfect example of Bergamo's architectural evolution.

At the center of the square stands the Contarini Fountain, a gift from Venetian podestà Alvise Contarini in 1780, while all around are monuments of extraordinary beauty: the Palazzo della Ragione with its loggia, the Civic Tower called "Campanone", and the Palazzo Nuovo housing the Civic Library.

Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and Colleoni Chapel

Among the architectural jewels of Bergamo Alta stands the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, an extraordinary example of Lombard Romanesque art begun in 1137. The richly decorated interior houses Flemish tapestries, wooden inlays by Lorenzo Lotto, and the tomb of composer Gaetano Donizetti.

Adjacent to the basilica is the Colleoni Chapel, the Renaissance mausoleum of condottiero Bartolomeo Colleoni, a work by Giovanni Antonio Amadeo. The polychromatic marble facade represents one of the masterpieces of 15th-century Lombard art.

The Fortress and Museums

On the hilltop stands the Fortress of Bergamo, a medieval fortress that now houses the Museum of the Risorgimento and Resistance. From its terraces, you can enjoy spectacular views over the entire city and surrounding plains.

Local Traditions and Culture

Bergamo Alta is not just architecture and history, but also a living center of culinary and cultural traditions. Bergamo cuisine has its roots in Lombard peasant tradition, enriched by Venetian influences.

Gastronomic Specialties

• Polenta e osei: Bergamo's signature dish
• Casoncelli: traditional stuffed ravioli
• Scarpinocc: typical fresh pasta from the valley
• Stracciatella: ice cream invented in Bergamo
• Polenta taragna: with cheese and butter

Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, Bergamo Alta hosts events celebrating its rich cultural tradition. The Donizetti Opera Festival pays tribute to the great Bergamo composer, while Christmas markets transform Piazza Vecchia into a magical holiday scene.

How to Reach and Visit Bergamo Alta

Bergamo Funicular

The most charming way to reach Bergamo Alta is certainly the funicular, in operation since 1887. This historic means of transport connects Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe in the Lower City with Piazza Mercato delle Scarpe in the Upper City in just 3 minutes, offering increasingly spectacular panoramas during the journey.

Practical Visiting Tips

• The Upper City is completely pedestrian
• Parking available at the walls or in Lower City
• Comfortable shoes for stone pavements
• Guided tours available year-round
• Tourist card with discounts for museums and attractions

Unforgettable Views and Walks

One of the most exciting experiences in Bergamo Alta is walking along the Venetian Walls. The route, freely accessible, offers spectacular views from different sides: to the south you can admire the Po Valley stretching to the Apennines, to the north the Orobic Prealps with their snow-capped peaks.

Particularly charming is the sunset walk, when golden light illuminates the terracotta roofs of the Lower City and the mountains turn pink. The Colle Aperto and Bastione di Sant'Alessandro are among the most appreciated viewpoints.

"Bergamo Alta is like an open-air history book, where every stone tells centuries of life, art, and traditions that continue to pulse in the present."

Bergamo Alta for Families

The medieval town is particularly suitable for families with children. The pedestrian streets allow safe walking, while numerous artisanal ice creams and historic shops entertain the little ones. The funicular ride is always an exciting adventure for children.

The Colle Aperto Gardens offer green spaces to relax and play, while the Natural Science Museum offers interactive educational paths perfect for families.

Bergamo Alta represents a perfect destination for those seeking an authentic experience in the heart of Lombardy. This medieval town, with its Venetian architecture, culinary traditions, and breathtaking views, offers visitors an unforgettable journey between past and present. Whether you're lovers of history, art, or simply seeking beauty, the Upper City will win you over with its timeless charm and warm Bergamo hospitality.