Five things to see in Brescia

Brescia, a city halfway between Milan and Venice, is a historical gem often underestimated. It is also the largest province in Lombardy, surpassing even the regional capital. Here are five things to see in Brescia that you absolutely cannot miss!

Brescia: The “Lioness of Italy”

The city of Brescia has ancient origins but reached its peak during the Roman period, leaving numerous ruins still visible today, including the Capitolium Temple. Over time, Brescia became one of the most important cities in Northern Italy, evolving from a duchy under Lombard rule to a city controlled by the Republic of Venice. For decades, Venice and Milan competed for control of the city, which became famous for its arms production.

Napoleon’s French troops eventually replaced Venetian rule, incorporating Brescia into the Cisalpine Republic, which later became the Italian Republic and then the Kingdom of Italy. After Napoleon’s fall, the Austrian Empire took control of the city.

During the Italian unification (Risorgimento), Brescia rebelled against Austrian rule, showing extraordinary courage during the famous “Ten Days of Brescia,” which earned the city the nickname “Lioness of Italy,” given by poet Giosuè Carducci. Over the following decades, Brescia underwent several transformations, particularly during the 1930s when some areas were modernized in the Fascist architectural style. However, the city’s true industrial development began after World War II, making Brescia one of Italy’s leading industrial hubs.

Like many places near Lake Garda, Brescia is rich in history—explore all its hidden corners!

The five things to see in Brescia

Now that you know its history, all you have to do is find out what are the best places to visit!

1. BRESCIA CASTLE

2. THE CITY SQUARES

3. THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE

4. TEATRO GRANDE

5. MILLE MIGLIA MUSEUM

UNUSUAL THINGS TO DO IN BRESCIA

1. Brescia Castle

Brescia Castle, also known as the “Falcon of Italy,” stands on the Cidneo Hill, the site of the city’s first Bronze Age settlement. It is one of the largest and best-preserved castles in Italy, holding historical, symbolic, and architectural significance.

You can reach the castle on foot, by car (with free parking available), or by bus (line 18). The castle is open daily with free admission, and a visit typically lasts about three hours. Inside, you’ll find several fascinating attractions, including:

• Panoramic viewpoints: Enjoy a breathtaking 360° view of the city from the “Torre dei Francesi.”
• Piazza del Battello: Home to Italy’s first railway monument—a locomotive that once traveled the Brescia-Edolo route.
• Luigi Marzoli Arms Museum: This museum houses one of Europe’s most extensive collections of Austrian arms and armor.
• Risorgimento Museum – Lioness of Italy: This museum narrates local and European history during the Italian unification through eight themed sections.
• Cidnea Astronomical Observatory: Located on the Bastione San Marco, this is Italy’s first public astronomical observatory (open on Fridays only).
• Pusterla Vineyard: One of Europe’s oldest urban vineyards, where century-old vines produce award-winning wines recognized as part of Italy’s Agricultural and Cultural Heritage.

For an even deeper experience, you can join one of the guided tours organized by the Brescian Speleological Association, which grants access to hidden parts of the castle and reveals its secrets through the eyes of a local guide.

2. Brescia’s Most Important Squares

Brescia’s historic center reflects its rich past through its monuments and iconic squares.

Piazza Paolo VI (Cathedral Square): Home to two cathedrals—the Old Cathedral (Duomo Vecchio or Rotonda) and the New Cathedral (Duomo Nuovo)—each showcasing different architectural styles. Next to them stands the medieval Pegol Tower.

Piazza Vittoria: Inaugurated in 1932, this L-shaped square reflects Fascist urban planning. It features the INA Tower, Italy’s first skyscraper, and the historic Post Office building.

Piazza della Loggia: Named after the Renaissance-style Palazzo della Loggia, now the city hall. The square also features the Clock Tower, with an ancient astronomical clock displaying the time, lunar phases, and zodiac signs.

3. UNESCO World Heritage Site

Since 2011, Brescia has been part of the UNESCO-listed “Longobards in Italy” monumental complex. The main attractions are:

Capitolium Temple, built under Emperor Vespasian in 73 AD, the temple was destroyed by fire and reconstructed in 1823. Visitors can see the contrast between the original white marble and the newer amber-hued marble. The temple is located in Piazza del Foro, the former Roman Forum. Nearby are the Roman Theatre, San Zeno Church, and remnants of ancient Brescia.

San Salvatore – Santa Giulia Complex: This includes:

• San Salvatore Church: A fine example of early medieval religious architecture with a crypt that once held Saint Julia’s relics.
• Santa Maria in Solario: Home to the magnificent Cross of Desiderius, displayed beneath a starry blue dome.
• Santa Giulia Monastery: Founded in 753 AD, this monastery was an educational hub for noble Longobard and Carolingian girls.

4. Teatro Grande in Brescia

IIf you love the performing arts, Teatro Grande is a must-see. It was granted to the Accademia degli Erranti by the Republic of Venice and was once an exclusive venue for the aristocracy. Recognized as a national monument in 1912, the theatre is an architectural masterpiece.

You can explore it through the “Grand Tour” guided visits, attend cultural events like the Opera Festival, or simply enjoy the elegant Caffè del Teatro Grande Berlucchi on weekends.

The theatre os full of stunning spaces like the Ridotto (Foyer), originally used for gambling and smoking, it now serves as a lounge for guests during intermissions. Its intricate decor is truly mesmerizing, and the Grand Hall, the theatre’s main performance space.

5. Mille Miglia Museum

The Mille Miglia, called by Enzo Ferrari “the most beautiful race in the world,” is a competition held every year since 1927, starting and finishing in Brescia.

The race was born out of spite against the Italian Grand Prix, which moved from Montichiari to Monza. In response, an aristocrat from Brescia decided to create a car race that would become a point of pride for their city.

To honor this legacy, the Mille Miglia Museum was opened in 2004. With its carefully curated settings, the museum will transport you back in time, offering a unique glimpse into a bygone era through its collection of vintage cars.

A visit to the museum is perfect not only for Mille Miglia enthusiasts but also for anyone looking for a unique experience. Each visit can be a new adventure, as the cars on display are regularly replaced—so you’ll always find something new to discover!

At the entrance, you’ll receive a tablet to guide you through the different sections, providing detailed explanations of what you’re seeing and ensuring you never feel lost.

Unusual Experiences in Brescia

• Fair of Saints Faustino and Giovita – A fair held in honor of the patron saints’ festival, attracting thousands of visitors to the city. In the historic center, you’ll find exhibition stalls from all over Italy and some international vendors, offering a wide variety of products.
• Open-Air Cinema – Eden d’Estate – An event held during the summer that transports you back to the 1960s as you watch movies under the stars.
• Brescia Underground – A guided tour through Brescia’s underground tunnels, offering different routes so you can choose the adventure that suits you best!
• Taste the Pirlo – Brescia’s signature aperitif, called “the coolest aperitif around” by The New York Times. It’s a simple twist on the Spritz, made with ⅓ still white wine, ⅓ Campari, and ⅓ sparkling water, garnished with a slice of orange.
• Festival of Lights – An annual event held in Brescia, usually during the Christmas season, which transforms the historic center into a dazzling stage of light art. Featuring installations by both national and international artists, the festival aims to offer a breathtaking visual experience while promoting the city’s culture, art, and beauty. The event is often accompanied by cultural activities, performances, concerts, and other initiatives that enrich the visitor experience.

Don’t miss out on this historic gem just a stone’s throw from Lake Garda—Brescia is waiting for you!