 |
The city on the hill |
Beautiful Bergamo city. This is how a Venetian traveller in the seventeenth century described the city as he crossed Lombardy. He had probably already returned to Venice when he put down his thoughts, but still had an image of the city in his mind, as well as his heart, high on the hilltop as he approached from the plain, slowly making out the details among the wonderful profile of spires and bell towers.
This is the same image that today welcomes tourists, even if they have less opportunities than the traveller to stop and admire the view, which is often obstructed by new buildings.
 |
 |
 |
 |
But once through the main gate in the walls, dedicated to Sant’Agostino, the city on the hill is just the same as it was four centuries ago.
A drinking fountain of white marble and grey sandstone gushing a jet of fresh spring water greeted the tired traveller and was a symbol of the richness and abundance of the city.
Another fountain today attracts the attention of the visitor. It is the one in Piazza Vecchia, a focal point that enhances the proportions of the square, considered one of the most beautiful in the area over which Venice extended its rule. In fact, some believe that it seems like a theatre stage, such is the perfect balance between the open space, united by the large square paving slabs, and the alignment of the buildings, dominated by the sheer size of the civic tower or Campanone (bell tower). Like a giant stone exclamation mark, towards which the lines of this well-proportioned area converge, the tower is best admired from the opposite side of the square. Let your gaze roam freely until it is drawn towards the top of the tower, the highlight of this wonderful building.
And looking through the light and shade of the loggia under the Palazzo della Ragione, you can almost make out the stock characters, the immortal Arlecchino (Harlequin) and his crony Brighella, of the Italian Commedia dell’Arte, which according to tradition was created in the Bergamo region. A stage where history and legends, great personalities and artists accompany visitors on their tour of the city.
You can also change your viewpoint and reach the top of the Campanone with a fast and modern lift. From here you can admire the wonderful 360-degree view over the roofs, the plain, and the lush green hills beneath the Orobie Alps, and plan your tour of the city, in discovery of its treasures.
by Pino Capellini
|
|
