Sighseeing
Piazza Vecchia
This lovely square is a must-see for everyone visiting the city. It is an excellent place to relax, stroll around or just sit and enjoy the calm atmosphere. On one side of the square is situated the beautiful Palazzo della Ragione. The original structure of the palace was erected in the 12th century, yet it had to be later rebuilt after a fire caught on it, hence the one that is presently on the square actually dates back to the 16th century. The first floor opens up to a beautiful loggia with high arches. If you go underneath the arches, you will find yourself right on the Piazza del Duomo.
Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore
Hidden behind the marble frontage and the porch, which columns are placed on the backs of lions is the lovely gilt baroque-style core of the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore. The interior of the cathedral is, furthermore, decorated with wealthy Renaissance tapestry. The cathedral accommodates a marble sarcophagus of the famous Gaetano Donizetti. Born in Bergamo in 1797, he also spent his last days in his hometown. Like most of the d�or in the church, the choir stalls are richly ornamented with wood inlays representing countryside and biblical scenes. Most of them were made by the 16th century Venetian master - Lorenzo Lotto. His works are also to be seen in the Accademia as well as in other buildings in Bergamo. The choir stalls are usually covered with a cloth in order to protect wood from light and other unwanted contaminants. Outside the cathedral, you will encounter a lovely octagonal Baptistery, which was formerly situated in the cathedral, yet it was later reconstructed and finished in 19th century style.
Museo Donizettiano
This lovely small museum is built to honour the native son Gaetano Donizetti, born in 1797, who turned out to be one of Italy's most renowned opera composers. The place is a must-see for opera fans. Inside the museum, visitors can see some of his belongings including his piano, his records and his deathbed, where he surrendered to syphilis in 1848. You can also visit his modest house - Casa Nataledi Gaetano Donizetti, where he was according to his statements, born in the cellar. It is positioned on Via B. Canale 14, a small street in the western end of the town.
Cappella Colleoni
Cappella Colleoni is one of the most striking sights in the city. It is a work of the famous designer Amadeo, a renowned Pavian sculptor, mostly known for his Certosa. This sophisticated funerary chapel was built for the ruler of Bergamo - Bartolomeo Colleoni. He was originally a local condottiere, who defended the Venetian stronghold and in return for his service was given to rule Bergamo for the republic. Colleoni is also immortalised in Venice equestrian bronze on Campo Santi Giovanni e Paolo, a work of the famous Verrocchio. The cappella is an eye-catching structure with pink and white marble fa�de, ornamented with intricate columns and loggias. Its fa�de is definitely a work of great imagination. The structure houses the tombs of Colleoni and his daughter. Inside, a frescoed ceiling, relieves and a sculpture of Colleoni on horse, are furthermore to be seen.
City layout
Most of the tourist attractions are situated in the old city - Citta Alta or Bergamo Alta. These include the Colleoni Cappella, Piazza Vecchia and a number of museums. One of the few sights situated in Bergamo Bassa is the Accademia; yet it is actually also close to the upper town. The main street in Bergamo Alta - Via Colleoni begins at Piazza Vecchia and goes through the core of the town. You can go up to Piazza Vecchia with a funicular from Piazza Mercato delle Scapri. The old town is conveniently explored on foot and there is almost no auto traffic in the town. The heart of the lower Bergamo Bassa is a square called Sentierone. It can easily be reached on foot from the railway station on Viale Papa Giovanni XXIII.
