Province of Bergamo: places and attractions not to be missed

"The world is a book and he who does not travel knows only a page of it" - St Augustine, Roman philosopher and theologian

It is said that real travellers consider travel a way of life and not a simple alternative to routine and daily commitments. After each visit, the desire to continue exploring and to discovering the beauty of the world around us. If your wanderings have brought you this far, don't miss the opportunity to visit the most beautiful places and attractions in the province of Bergamo.

To help you choose what to visit in and around Bergamo, here is a list of destinations that will leave you speechless!

Attractions not to be missed in the province of Bergamo: the Canto Alto

The Canto Alto (1146 metres), located in the area of Poscante (Zogno), is a popular peak with tourists because of its ease of access (the ascent time is about 1 hour) and the panorama that can be enjoyed, especially on clear days. Because of its strategic position, it is an excellent vantage point on the routes between Brembana Valley e Seriana Valley.  In the Middle Ages, the summit was subjected to gruelling garrisons that led to the construction of a sturdy masonry tower, which was unfortunately destroyed in the early 14th century. In addition, along the various paths one can find numerous fountains and areas where one can sit and have a picnic.

Attractions not to be missed in the province of Bergamo: the Parco delle Orobie

The Orobie Bergamasche Park by Albino  is a large forested mountain area 70,000 hectares which encompasses imposing mountain ranges, viable trails and breathtaking views. It constitutes one of the most important green areas in Lombardy and is the undisputed realm of numerous animals such as eagles and ibex. Another significant nature reserve is certainly that of Valpredina (Sovere) which lies between 380 m and 1100 m above sea level. Since 1983, the entire area has become the property of theWWF Italian Associationwhich is currently committed to the protection and preservation of these wonderful territories. The reserve, which can be visited in its entirety, covers an area of 37 hectares and is traversed by the slow-flowing Predina stream.

Attractions not to be missed in the province of Bergamo: the Carpenter's Museum

The Carpenter's Museum in Almenno St Bartholomew was inaugurated on 20 June 1987 within the company's own grounds. The founder, Tino Sana, wanted to describe and pass on the history of his craft through an evocative space open to the public. In particular, the museum is also suitable for school visits. This narrative takes place thanks to a series of stands presenting the various stages of woodworking and the presence of period equipment and machinery made of wood and 17th century lathes. The museum also contains an extensive exhibition of ancient bicyclesas well as jerseys and trophies of Felice Gimondi, the famous former Italian road cyclist and sports manager.

Attractions not to be missed in the province of Bergamo: the castle of Urgnano

The castle of Urgnano was built by Archbishop Giovanni around 1354, after the death of his brother Luchino Visconti. This imposing structure is known to be one of the most interesting historical sites in the Lombardy region. The entire construction, made of terracotta, has a quadrilateral plan shape with four towers at each end. In the past, the presence of the moat made an enemy attack more difficult. In addition, it is divided in half: on one side is the large courtyard and on the other the charming roof garden.

Attractions not to be missed in the province of Bergamo: Madonna della Cornabusa

The Sanctuary of Madonna della Cornabusa located at an altitude of about 700 metres, is actually almost hidden by the stream and is housed inside a fascinating natural cave. The name 'Cornabusa' derives from two words in Bergamo dialect: 'Corna' meaning rock and 'Busa' meaning hole. The sanctuary traces its origins back to the second half of the 15th century when the chronicles narrate that a girl, deaf-mute from birth, discovered the statue of the Virgin Mary in the cave during a storm.

Attractions not to be missed in the province of Bergamo: Sotto il Monte

Only 15 km from the centre of Bergamo, Sotto il Monte John XXIII (the name given by the then President of the Republic Antonio Segni) is internationally known for being the birthplace of Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, the future Pope John XXIII. Within the village, many buildings have been transformed into place-remembrance that point us to the most significant moments in the life of the beloved 'Good Pope'. An example of this is the structure of Cà Maitino.

The whole town actually tells the story of the Pope's vicissitudes and even the street names are linked to salient periods of his life. Given the short distance, you absolutely must not forget to visit the Abbey of S. Egidio in Fontanella. This is an ancient Romanesque church, an evocative and relaxing site where time seems to stand still. An ideal destination to rest and finally breathe in an atmosphere quite different from the daily grind.

Attractions not to be missed in the province of Bergamo: the Torre del Sole

And again, for science enthusiasts, the Tower of the Sun a Brembate di Sopra is a must-see. The complex represents one of the most comprehensive astronomical parks in Italy and aims to make astronomical science accessible to young and old. In fact, numerous guided tours and school excursions are organised here; there is room not only for popular activities but also, and above all, for the direct involvement of the public. In key playful-educationalmany initiatives are organised to discover the wonders and mysteries of the Universe.

Attractions not to be missed in the province of Bergamo: Le Cornelle wildlife park

Finally, for animal lovers, but also for all those who like to spend a day in contact with nature, we recommend visiting the Le Cornelle wildlife park in Valbrembo. Born in 1981 and located on the eastern bank of the river BremboThis park offers 100,000 square metres of green space where you can discover flora and fauna from all over the world and interact with different environments. An incredible experience suitable for all age groups!

If you would like to get to know the landscape of our territory, we recommend you take a look at the video produced by the tourism section of the Province of Bergamo: