A city shaped like a Palace is the accurate description of the city by Baldassare Castiglioni, expressing the charm and pleasure that only a trip to Mantua can offer.
Surrounded on three sides by artificial lakes that originally defended the city, Mantua expresses the harmony of the Renaissance with its palaces and scenic squares. The historic city centre can be reached by crossing Ponte San Giorgio, on foot or by bicycle. The ideal starting point to discover Mantua is the Castle of St. George, a majestic fifteenth-century fortress commissioned by Francesco I Gonzaga as part of the large complex of the Ducal Palace.
Leaving the Castle on your left, you’ll come to the heart of Piazza Sordello, the large rectangular cobbled square that was the scene of the coup by the Gonzaga family in 1328 to take over the city. On the left is the Ducal Palace, in all its grandeur. In an effort to compete with the courts of the most prestigious European capitals, the Gonzagas commissioned extraordinary works by the most talented and well-known painters of the time.
Next to the Palazzo Ducale, on the right side of Piazza Sordello, stands Mantua Cathedral, dedicated to St. Peter, a beautiful old building that is definitely worth visiting. In addition to the great arch of Piazza Sordello, turning left you can admire the Palazzo dell'Accademia Nazionale Virgiliana, overlooking Piazza Dante. Built by Maria Theresa of Austria, the academy is famous for revealing to the world the genius that was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, during a famous concert in 1770.
If you’re fond of history and art, other essential stops on your holiday in Mantua are Piazza Broletto, Palazzo del Podestà, the Arengario, the Sottoportico dei Lattonai, the Tazio Nuvolari and the Learco Guerra Museum. Don't miss Piazza delle Erbe, Palazzo della Ragione, the clock tower and the Casa del Mercante, real fifteenth-century architectural gems. Around a hundred metres from the Palace of San Sebastiano is Palazzo Te, a true masterpiece of Renaissance architecture.
Although primarily considered a city of art, Mantua also offers the opportunity to enjoy nature. Take advantage of the organised barbecue or family picnic areas in the open air, surrounded by a fantastic green and sunny landscape, or enjoy Mantua’s tasty cuisine in high quality restaurants or one of the outstanding city centre trattorias. Don’t waste time: check out our holiday packages to Mantua and get ready for a brand new, unforgettable adventure!
