This Brescia travel guide will provide you with information on what you need to know about this charming city. Brescia is a city in Lombardia, Italy that is located between Lake Garda and Valtrompia. This quaint city is approximately about 100 kilometers east from the city of Milan.

The city of Brescia is the third largest Italian industrial area that focuses on mechanical and automotive engineering as well as machine tools. However, due to its location Brescia has become a popular tourist attraction as well.

History of Brescia

There are several stories as to when and how the city of Brescia was established including one that involves Hercules and another was attributed to a fugitive from the siege of Troy. However, scholars state that the city was founded by the Etruscans.

Brescia is often referred to as The Lioness of Italy because of the 10-day uprising in 1849 took place against the Austrian oppression. It is the administrative capital of the Brescia Provinc e. The city is also one of the most important regional centers since pre-Roman times which is evident in the numerous Roman monuments in the city.

Geography of Brescia

Brescia is the second largest city in Lombardia. It is situated at the foot of the Alps between Mella and Naviglio. The city is close to several lakes including Lake Garda and Lake Iseo.

Brescia’s lay-out is quite peculiar, handed down from the Roman times. The streets in Brescia’s center intersect at right angles and most areas are enclosed by medieval walls which are larger than the Roman town.

Main Attractions in Brescia

With its history that dates back to 4th century BC, Brescia is filled with numerous notable historical landmarks including those that were left during the Roman era. There are several cathedrals in the city that showcases the Roman influence including the Duomo Vecchio and Duomo Nuovo. The Piazza del Foro is another Roman development and is considered to be the most important array of Roman remains in Lombardy.

One can also see several footprints of the Renaissance era like the Piazza della Loggia which was built in 1492 and a great example of Renaissance piazza.

Aside from the architectural design of the buildings in Brescia, there are also several notable buildings that house great works from famous artists like Biblioteca Queriniana which contains 14th century manuscripts from Dante and the Church of San Clemente that houses numerous paintings from Alessandro Bonvicino, or more popularly known as Moretto.