Open the left menu of mantova. Cuisine and delicacies. The best dishes and restaurants in Mantua

Mantova (Italians say Mantova) is the center of the province of the same name in the Italian region of Lombardy. Etruscans and Gauls lived here for a long time, even before our era. In 70 B.C. e. one of the great poets was born here ancient rome- Virgil.

For any traveler interested in architecture, art, history of Italy, a trip to Mantua is of undoubted interest. City, by virtue of it geographical location, easy to include in any a tourist route passing through northern Italy. Those who intend to make this city the base of their journey can be offered to stay in any of several dozen hotels, all of which have excellent reviews from guests. You can feel a special aura by choosing one of those hotels that are located in historical buildings protected by the state.

How to get there

The location of the city is very convenient: from here 150 km to Milan, 30 km to Verona, 160 km to Venice, 80 km to Bologna. The way to these cities can be done by train, bus or car. A slightly longer distance, 300 km, separates Mantua from Rimini, the airport where most tourists from Russia arrive.

Search for flights to Verona (nearest airport to Mantua)

A bit of history

In the Middle Ages, the city became an arena of political and religious struggle, found itself among the possessions of one or another nobleman, until it passed into the possession of the Gonzaga family, whose name is inseparable from Renaissance Mantua.

The rulers of this kind are known for a contradictory combination of qualities, a kind of enlightened tyrants. Gonzaga managed to strengthen the economic position of Mantua, erected in the city magnificent palaces and castles, gathered in them amazing collections of books, antiquities and art treasures. The political influence of this kind extended throughout Europe, the Mantua court was one of the most brilliant in Italy, and the representatives of the powerful family themselves were the legislator of customs, fashions and passions in art.

It was those architects, artists, poets who worked under the auspices of Gonzaga who became the founders of those trends that became dominant in the art of the Renaissance. By the beginning of the 18th century, the glorious family began to fade, the younger branch of the family could not keep Mantua at the top of glory and greatness, the city fell into decay and came under the control of the Habsburgs. From a brilliant city of arts, the city turned into a powerful bastion that created many problems for Napoleon during the conquest of Italy.

Popular hotels in Mantua

Entertainment and attractions of Mantua

The historic center of Mantua is listed world heritage humanity, the reason for this is the embodiment of the ideas of the Italian Renaissance in the planning and development of the city. Among the attractions of the city are numerous cathedrals and palazzos, usually grouped around squares. A special place in the list of attractions is occupied by the Mantua Cathedral, on the site of which more than one religious building was built and destroyed by fire.

After a fire that happened in the 16th century, Giulio Romano reconstructed the interiors of the cathedral, and later its facade was replaced with a new one, made of Carrara marble.

The interiors of the cathedral are decorated with paintings by great artists, but the most famous works - by Paolo Veronese and Giulio Campi - were taken from Mantua. The Cathedral is located in Piazza Sordello.

Basilica of Saint Andrea

But the largest church in the city is the Basilica of St. Andrea, built in the Middle Ages on the site of a Benedictine monastery. By order of Lodovico III Gonzago, it was completely rebuilt in 1472 under the guidance of the architect Leon Batista Alberti. As a result, the church became more spacious, the flow of pilgrims increased, who sought to fall to the vessel with the "priceless blood of Christ", which was stored in this church. Later, the church was completed and rebuilt, in particular, it received its high dome already in the 18th century. But the facade is still exactly the same as the idea of ​​the great architect.

Palazzo Ducale

Palazzo Ducale, the ducal palace, is grandiose architectural structure, one of the largest in Europe: the total area of ​​​​all (about 500) premises is almost 34,000 square meters. m. It was built from 1290 to 1708 as the residence of the rulers of the city, its most ancient buildings are on the Palazzo del Capitano. Corridors and galleries, halls and courtyards are a model of harmony and the epitome of luxury. Appearance The constructions of this palace were determined by various architects, decorating it with colonnades, towers, porticos. The amazing paintings of the interior of the palace have survived to this day and do not cease to arouse the admiration of both ordinary tourists and outstanding art historians.

Palazzo del Te

Another palace was the fruit of the activity of Giulio Romano: the Palazzo del Te, which is located in the southern part of the city. One of the most striking examples of Mannerism, this palace was also built for the rulers of the city and fits perfectly into the surrounding landscape. I must say that Giulio Romano had no problems with financing, so only inspiration guided his work, and the buildings were built incredibly quickly for those times: this palace, which the architect considered the embodiment of his dream, was built in just a year and a half. After that, the palace was decorated with frescoes, stucco and other decorative details for another 10 years.

• Where to stay: in order to combine shopping, excursions and radial excursions in Lombardy, it is most convenient (but also more expensive!) to stay in Milan. Look for cozy hotels in the "alpine key" in San Colombano, on the lakes

Mantova. Italy.

Modern Mantua is alive and tourist town, it is picturesquely surrounded by lakes.
Such water system It took shape in the 12th century, when the architect and engineer Alberto Pitentino proposed to organize the defense of the city using the Mincio River. So four lakes appeared around the residential center - Superiore, Mezzo, Inferiore and Piolo, making Mantua an island that was connected to the "mainland" by two bridges.

From the railway station we will walk along the avenue Corso Vittorio Emanuele II, which leads Piazza Andrea Mantegna. Meets us here Basilica of St. Andrew (Basilica di Sant "Andrea), erected according to the project of Leon Battista Alberti in 1472. After 328 years, the dome was built according to the drawings of Filippo Yuvarra.
The crypt contains sacred vases with the blood of Christ, which was brought to Mantua by the Roman centurion Longinus.
Longinus, on the orders of Pilate, pierced the side of Christ with a spear, at that moment there was an eclipse of the sun and an earthquake, and the centurion believed in Christ. In addition, Longinus ran his hand, stained with the blood of Christ, over his sore eyes, and they became healthy. The legend says that Longinus brought the collected blood to his hometown.
In one of the aisles of the basilica buried painter Andrea Mantegna who died at Mantua in 1506.

To the right of the basilica extends Grass Square (Piazza delle Erbe), which takes its name from the fruity and vegetable market located here.

Flower market in the square.

The most ancient building squares and cities round church of San Lorenzo.

Church of Saint Lorenzo and Clock tower.

Church Saint Lorenzo(Rotonda di San Lorenzo) was erected in the 11th century. by order of Matilda di Canossa, traces of Byzantine frescoes have been preserved inside. Matilda di Canossa was a powerful and influential woman of the Middle Ages, it was she who acted as an intermediary between Pope Gregory VII and Emperor Henry IV, who was excommunicated and so humiliatingly asked for forgiveness.

Interior of the church of San Lorenzo.

Next to the church rises the Clock Tower, dating back to the 15th century. The clock also shows the phases of the moon and which zodiac constellation the sun is in.

Watch.

We move on to Sordello Square.
On Piazza Sordello the main buildings of Mantua are concentrated.
Entering the square through the arch, opens beautiful view on the Cathedral, made in the Gothic style.

To the right of the cathedral ducal palace– city residence of the Gozaga family, huge complex, consisting of a labyrinth of rooms and corridors.
Ducal Palace (Palazzo Ducale). Piazza Sordello, 4
Closed January 1, May 1, December 25 and Mondays.
Open 8.45 – 19.15. Ticket 6.5 euros.

lived here Isabella d'Este- the most famous Marquise of Mantua. Isabella d'Este was born in Ferrara, she was the eldest daughter of the Duke of Ferrara and the older sister of the equally famous Beatrice d'Este, Duchess of Milan. Isabella d "Este received a good education and at the age of 16 she married 25-year-old Francesco II Gonzaga. Isabella d'Este was beautiful, smart, well-read and witty. She was fond of art and patronized artists and poets. Leonardo da Vinci, Andrea Mantegna, Perugino, Correggio, Ticin, Rafael and others visited her palace.
Isabella d'Este loved jewelry and knew how to dress tastefully. Beautiful and stylish, she quickly became the "first woman" of the Renaissance. At the same time, the English writer Henry Morton, a subtle observer and tireless researcher of historical characters, notes that Isabella d'Este was arrogant , a penetrating and bitchy woman who did not help the dying poor Mantegna, but bargained with him for a bust of Faustina. She went through art studios and swept away everything that she liked. And if it came to shopping, then Isabella d "Este wrote in an orderly tone to find her an animal skin with a head for a muff.
When her husband Francesco died in 1519, Isabella's eldest son Federico succeeded to the throne. But he was still small, so Isabella d "Este became regent and continued to rule the country. During this time, Mantua's position strengthened.
Isabella d'Este died 20 years later, she was buried in the Church of St. Paul in Mantua, but her remains disappeared from the grave.

ducal palace

At the end of Piazza Sordello is Rigoletto's house- the character of the Verdi opera of the same name. Art exhibitions are held in this building.

Let's turn right and see Castle of Saint George (Via San Giorgio), which was erected in 1395 to protect the city, but in 1459 the castle was transformed into the residence of Fancelli. Inside the castle was designed by Mantegna.

Let's walk along the fortress walls and the embankment, then turn right onto via Trieste.
After crossing the canal, turn right onto via Gilberto Goi, then left to via Massari and right to via XX Settembre, which leads to Piazza square Martiri di Belfiore. Previously, a church stood on the square along with the post office building, but it was destroyed. The only thing left of the church is the statue of the Saint, installed on the bridge. The entire area was rebuilt at the beginning of the 19th century. Let's walk towards the Fish Market, covered with a row of porticos. Here they traded fish caught in the lakes and brought to the market along the canals in boats. On the other side were butcher shops.
Let's continue our route via G. Chiassi.
At the crossroads with via Poma located St. Barnab's Church. The modern building dates back to the 18th century, and the first news about the church dates back to 1268. Giulio Romano was buried in the church, but his tomb has been lost.
Let's go through via Poma.
Where the street widens on the left will Giulio Romano's house, erected in 1544, but later rebuilt. Above the entrance doors there is a statue of Mercury and a ram - this is the coat of arms of the Giulio Romano family. Now the house is privately owned and cannot be visited.
The real name of the brilliant architect, painter and draftsman was Giulio Pippi, the nickname Romano meant "Roman", because. he was born in Rome. Giulio Romano was one of Raphael's most talented students. Under the direction of Raphael, he worked on frescoes in the Vatican and at the Villa Farnesina in Rome, he also painted a number of paintings and completed many of the unfinished works of his teacher.
In 1524, Giulio Romano came to Mantua at the invitation of the Marquis Federico II Gonzaga. He was appointed chief architect of the palace buildings of Gonzaga. In Mantua, Giulio Romano painted frescoes for the ducal palace depicting scenes from the myth of Diana and from the history of the Trojan War. But the main creation was the Palazzo Te, to which we are going. Giulio Romano died in Mantua on November 1, 1546.
At the intersection with via Giovanni Acerbi let's turn right.
Let's go ahead and see on the right side the dominant Church of Saint Sebastian, erected in 1460 according to the project of Leon Battista Alberti. Later, a warehouse was arranged in the church, but at the beginning of the 19th century. again for religious purposes.

Church of Saint Sebastian

Almost opposite the church is a red-brick house number 47, known as house Mantegna.
Andrea Mantegna was a court painter from 1457 and the Marquis Ludovic Gonzaga gave him a piece of land. The red brick house with a unique cylindrical courtyard can be visited.
It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10.00 to 12.30 and from 15.00 to 18.00. Admission is free if there are no exhibitions.

Let's cross Viale Risorgimento And viale Isonzo, where there are two portals with Eagles. From here begins garden belonging to Te Palace. An alley surrounded by trees leads to Palazzo Te, which is another symbol of Mantua.
The palace was erected in 1525-35. Giulio Romano for Federico Gonzaga. The quadrangular palace is located on an island formed by a canal. The canal was surrounded by gardens, fountains, statues, and trees, with Te Palace in the center.
In subsequent centuries, the palace was used as a barracks. Gardens, fountains and statues were destroyed. Why do soldiers need them?

Te Palace

The palace was later restored. Now there is a museum with eight rooms where you can admire the works of Giulio Romano and other artists.

Cuisine of Mantua

Mantovana- typical Mantua round bread made from soft wheat.
Sorbir d "agnoli or bevr" in vin- soup, in the broth of which wine is added, and then pasta or tortelli, for example, with pumpkin (Tortelli di zucca).
Among the second typical dishes it is worth noting pike (luccio) And donkey or horse stew (Stracotto d "asino, Stracotto d" cavallo).

Dishes of Mantova cuisine.

Grandiose architectural complex Palazzo Ducale, or the Ducal Palace is one of the largest in Europe. It was built as the residence of the rulers of Mantua. All buildings included in palace complex interconnected by numerous galleries, decorated with picturesque gardens and courtyards.

The oldest parts of the palace were built at the end of the 13th century - it was then that, by order of the captain of the people, Guido Bonacolsi, the Palazzo del Capitano and the "Big House" were erected. These two buildings form the so-called "Old Yard". Some time later, between 1395 and 1406, the architect Bartolino da Novara erected nearby the Castle of St. George, which from the middle of the 15th century became the residence of the family of Lodovico II Gonzaga (Duke of Nevers).

In the northeast tower is the famous "Marriage Room", which was frescoed in 1465-1474. The first floor also houses the first study and the first "grotto (private apartments) of the wife of Francesco II Gonzaga - Isabella d'Este. In the years 1480-1484, the "new courtyard" was built, the author of the project was the architect Luca Fancelli. "New courtyard" included The ducal apartments, which were later expanded and decorated.At the end of the 16th century, the Church of St. Barbara was built in the palace.The palace remained the home of the Gonzaga family for several centuries - from 1328 to 1707.

Palace of the Mind (Palazzo della Ragione)

The Palace of Reason (Palazzo della Ragione) was built in the 13th century and until 1797 was the venue for city courts. The largest medieval building impresses with its architectural boldness and the current solar calendar-clock. The hall of the palace has an almost rectangular shape, more than 80 meters long and 27 meters wide, the height of Palazzo della Ragione is 24 meters.

The building is arched, its huge roof is supported by columns, and an open loggia surrounds the upper tier. The Mind Palace is one of the largest astrological monuments of the Middle Ages. It is assumed that the frescoes were the idea of ​​the Padua astrologer and physician Pietro d'Abano, performed by Giotto. But in 1420, during a fire, the works were badly damaged. Venetian architects restored the cycle of frescoes, consisting of 333 squares, which are located on several floors.

Today we can come to Mantua to Piazza delle Ebre to see one of the most beautiful palaces in Italy, frescoes on astronomical themes, visit the lively market, which is divided into an area of ​​herbs and fruits. On the first floor of Palazzo della Ragione there are a huge number of shops and the best wine.

What sights of Mantua did you like? There are icons next to the photo, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.

Outlet Fashion District

The Fashion District Outlet in Mantua, opened in 2003, houses the most famous brands sold at attractive discounts ranging from 30 to 80 percent. Here you can buy clothes, shoes, jewelry, bags, household goods and other things and items. The outlet was built under the influence of the Renaissance and covers an area of ​​33,000 square meters, which houses more than 100 different stores.

On the first day of sales, a huge line of cars line up near the outlet, which came here for shopping. These days, no one leaves without shopping. Here you can buy boots for 60 euros, stylish leather bags of famous brands for 30 euros, Dolce Gabanna shoes for 50 euros, a silk dress from Guy Mattiolo for 70 euros and many other profitable and high-quality items.

The Cathedral of Mantua has a long history. The first building in its place was built in the era of early Christianity. It did not survive, at the turn of the 14th and 15th centuries it was restored and reconstructed. It was at this time that a bell tower made of red stone and a wonderful, magnificent beauty of the classic Gothic facade appeared at the cathedral.

In the 16th century, the building was damaged by fire and was again reconstructed. And even later, in the 18th century, the original facade of multi-colored marble was somewhat modified in the Romanesque style and replaced with white marble.

The inside of the cathedral is just as beautiful as the outside. It houses a valuable altarpiece by Paolo Farinati, one of Italy's most important painters of the 16th century. And the interior is decorated with works by famous artists of Mantua.

Bibiena Theater

One of the main attractions of Mantua is Bibiena Academic Theatre, founded in the 18th century. The creator of this magnificent building was the artist F.G. Bibiena, who was the representative famous family architects and theater decorators. Their "signature" style was the use of "visual deception" and spatial illusion, creating a stunning effect.

The construction of the theater in Mantua was carried out for two years - in 1767-1769. The building was made in the Baroque style. The interior has four tiers of semicircular boxes, which limit several columns. The grand opening of the theater took place on December 3, 1769. On this day, the work of Luigi Gatti "Virgil and Manto" was staged on the stage of the theater. The second name of the Bibyen Theater is "Scientific Theatre". It is due to the fact that in addition to performances, it was planned to hold various meetings, debates and other scientific events. All this is fully correlated with the educational trends of the era.

A few weeks after the opening, on January 16, 1770, young Mozart, who was then 14 years old, gave a concert in the theater. At the end of the performance, the hall and the theater building were highly appreciated by the father of the brilliant composer and musician.

The facade of the building acquired its modern neoclassical appearance somewhat later. It was created in 1775 by the famous architect Giuseppe Piermarini.

The theater is located near the Palazzo Ducale complex.

Church of San Andrea

The Church of the Holy Apostle Andrew the First-Called is the largest in Mantua. It was partially erected in the Middle Ages, but remained unfinished for a long time.

The Church of Sant'Andrea in Mantua has become one of the most important buildings famous architect and scientist Leon Battista Alberti in Northern Italy. The architect tried in his creation to combine the traditional basilica form of the temple, which is characterized by a large dome. This largest of Alberti's projects was completed already in the 18th century by Filippo Juvarra. Despite the fact that the church was built after the death of its creator, it was in it that Alberti's original plan was largely preserved than in his other buildings. The facade of the church looks majestic, vaguely resembling triumphal arch. Interior decoration, interior decoration, decoration of both orders - all this is fully consistent with the spirit of High Renaissance architecture.

Palazzo Te

The Palazzo Te country palace is the brightest representative of the Mannerist era. The palace was built by order of the Mantua Marquis Federico II Gonzaga, under the leadership of a specially invited Roman architect Giulio Romano, who brought to life all his genius and imagination. Romano had no restrictions in terms of funding, and therefore his masterpiece was built in just a year and a half.

The interior of Palazzo Te is decorated with beautiful frescoes, the main one of which belongs to the hand of Romano himself. His image of Jupiter smashing the giants with lightning completely covers the surface of the square "Hall of the Giants" with a dome on the ceiling.

Unfortunately, the entire contents of the palace were destroyed by the Austrians in 1630. Since then, the palace has often been used as a barracks, which has not had the best effect on the state of the interiors of many halls.

Rigoletto's house

The action of Verdi's most famous opera takes place in Mantua, but its main character, the jester Rigoletto, never actually existed. But it's probably not that important. Being directly in the center of even operatic, and not completely historically reliable events, it is pleasant to merge with history with the help of such markers as Rigoletto's house.

The fake home of the legendary jester is located opposite the Ducal Palace not far from Cathedral. In the courtyard of this modest 15th-century building stands a statue of Rigoletto, a reminder that Italy is a temperamental and musical country, impossible without art.

The most popular attractions in Mantua with descriptions and photos for every taste. Choose best places for visiting famous places Mantua on our site.

Mantova, even for Italy rich in sights, is unique creation human hands. It is no coincidence that all historical Center cities, including squares, buildings, streets, are included in the UNESCO list as a single unique value. The winds of history could not change the identity of Mantua. And people have done everything possible to keep this beautiful city as long as possible.

He was described by Virgil, mentioned by Verdi in Rigoletto. Romeo, by the will of Shakespeare, was exiled here after a duel with Tybalt. Such fame is not accidental. Mantua or Mantova, as the Italians call it, was recognized as the cultural capital of Italy during the Renaissance. By the way, in 2019, it was this city that was declared by Italy for the title cultural capital Europe.

Mantova is located on the banks of the Mincio River. Once it was generally located on an island between lakes and a river, reminiscent of Venice with its landscapes. But some of the lakes were drained, the canals were filled up. They left one, for the sake of completeness of the assortment of attractions, I guess. To certainly have in one place all the possible beauty and rarity. Two beautiful lakes at the entrance to Mantua have also been preserved.

Gonzaga - Patrons of Mantua

In 1328, Luigi Gonzago defeated his predecessor, forgotten by history, and for many centuries made his family the hereditary rulers of Mantua. The famous family had a lot of their "skeletons in the closet." Who among those in power in the Middle Ages did not engage in intrigues, did not send objectionable relatives to monasteries and to the next world. The Dukes of Gonzago were no exception. But for the city they have become real guardians, patrons, disinterested patrons.

Each of the following members of the family considered the strengthening and flourishing of Mantua one of their main life tasks. In addition to attracting the best architects, creators, builders to the construction of the city, they made it a center of culture and art. In fact, they became the legislators of artistic preferences, fashion and even mores of their time. To be entered into the Mantua court was considered prestigious for all of Europe.

It is clear that such influence became possible after the strengthening of political positions. Clever and far-sighted Gonzaga were related to representatives of influential families of the Austrian, Byzantine dynasty, established diplomatic relations with the Holy Roman Empire, the Venetian Republic, with the Pope. In the Ducal Palace, the main attraction of Mantua, there is a hall decorated with portraits of representatives of the family. 13 bishops, 14 cardinals, there is even a saint, approved in this title by the Pope. Decent list. One of the portraits, which depicts the family in its composition at the beginning of the 17th century, belongs to the brush of Rubens himself.

Thanks to the skillful political maneuvering of the rulers, Mantua was the only independent city until the 18th century. Then, after the next wars for supremacy and territory, the city was annexed to the Austrian kingdom. After a while, Napoleon "hosted" it. Then back to Austria. This was the end of Mantua's prosperity. Only in 1866 did it become part of Italy.

Subsequent political storms also left a mark on her appearance. But Italy has done everything possible to restore, improve and preserve the beautiful face of the city. Fun fact: from time to time representatives of the Gonzaga family work in the city hall. And its head is given the right to open the annual Mantua festival in Italy.

Lovely Mantua

The city is so harmonious that it gives the impression of a treasure box. The Dukes of Gonzaga, their numerous vassals, in the construction of dwellings, sought to surpass all European courts. Many have succeeded. The palaces and castles of Mantua are so unique that they often do not allow comparison. Every building in the city has its own interesting story and your color. It is simply impossible to even briefly talk about everything that deserves attention. Numerous tourists have made their rating of top attractions.

Palazzo Ducale or Ducal Palace. It belonged, of course, to the Gonzago family. And at that time it was the largest in Europe. Now the majestic building is no less impressive. This is not one, but a whole ensemble of buildings, including a fortress, a basilica and the palace itself, with 500 halls.

Like many famous buildings of the Middle Ages, this landmark of the city was built for more than one century. Hence the confusion different styles, but done masterfully, in harmony and beauty. The rooms are connected by beautiful passages, corridors, galleries, patios and gardens. The interiors of the halls and rooms are decorated with the most valuable works of culture of that time. Here are the works of Leonardo da Vinci, Donatello, Andrea Mantegna, Giulio Romano. Even Pisanello's unfinished frescoes have been preserved, interesting in that pages of legends about the glorious King Arthur come to life on them.

The Cathedral, located on Piazza Sordello directly opposite the Palazzo Ducale. The cathedral is not impressive in size, but it is so unusual from the outside! Especially if you bypass it, observing a sharp change architectural styles. The Romanesque style is replaced by the Gothic, the red brick walls are replaced by a multi-colored baroque marble facade, the lancet windows and spiers are austere chapels. The inner naves and altars of the cathedral are decorated with priceless frescoes, paintings by Francesco Costa, Carrara marble columns. Luxurious and majestic - this is how you can characterize the majestic building, famous throughout Italy.

Unusual architecture, rich interior decoration distinguish the Basilica of Sant'Andrea from the general number of sights of Mantua. At first, there was a Benedictine monastery on the site of the temple. In the 15th century, taking the most beautiful part of the building as a basis, the architect Alberti designed the future masterpiece. Alas, he himself could not realize his plans, and his students brought to life only part of the project. In general, like most medieval palaces, the building became a long-term construction. But there is a blessing in disguise: each successive architects contributed their own zest to the creation of a masterpiece.

Palazzo del Te attracts everyone who has ever heard of it like a magnet. The creation of Raphael's favorite student Giulio Romano is considered the standard of mannerism - a mannered, sophisticated, original style. Romano was the son of his age and put all his creativity, inspiration, talent into this palace. He was not limited in resources. Federico Gonzago, who ruled at that time, prospered, and for complete happiness he lacked only a special room for entertainment and feasts.

Giulio Romano created a unique work of art. Moreover, an unusual landmark was erected in just a year and a half. Over the next decade, the interiors were decorated and replenished with new masterpieces. The halls of the Giants, Cupid and Psyche, the large Horse Hall are decorated with frescoes, which Romano himself worked on. Colorful, often piquant plots, richness of details, luxury of decor give an idea of ​​the frivolity and freedom of morals of that time. The colossal dimensions of the “The Fall of the Titans” fresco and the peculiar naturalism of the work are simply stunning!

But besides the ancient sights, it is worth getting acquainted with one more - the Tazio Nuvolari Museum. The legendary racer glorified his native city. He even had a nickname "Flying Mantua". In the 20s of the last century, he became a racing star and forever remained the pride of Mantua and all of Italy.

Mantova is the capital of the province of Lombardy in Italy, as well as simply an unusually beautiful and majestic city surrounded by water. Mantua is a city whose planning and development embodied the basic ideals of the Italian Renaissance.

Mantua was originally located on an island. In the 12th century, work was carried out to change the course of the Mincho River, and the city ended up on the peninsula. The lake was divided by dams into three parts: Lago Superiore, Lago Mezzo and Lago Inferiore. Mantova is constantly shrouded in a light haze due to the high humidity of the air, which gives the city a special mysterious atmosphere.

Verdi's opera Rigoletto takes place in Mantua. One can understand the dissolute duke, who was constantly in a romantic mood in this wonderful city ...

One of the most famous monuments Mantua - Palazzo del Te. The palace was built in the 16th century by Raphael's student Giulio Romano. Romano painted the walls of the palace with frescoes that still amaze the imagination.

Palazzo del Te is located on the outskirts of Mantua. On this trip, we did not visit the inside of the palace.

The day was very hot, we started our walk around the Old Town in the evening.

The old city is surrounded by a fortress wall. Along the wall is a solid parking lot, which is very convenient. Several small passages lead inside.

The streets of Mantua are hard enough to walk. The streets are paved with stones, but the masonry is not trampled down at all. It may have been done recently...

The patron saint of Mantua is Saint Anselm, the celebration of the City Day takes place annually on March 18th.

As you get closer to the city center, the houses become taller and more beautiful.

The historic center of Mantua is under the protection of UNESCO.

Basilica di Sant'Andrea special place on the list of attractions in Mantua. Very beautiful building buildings of the 15th century harmoniously combines several different styles - from Gothic to Baroque.

Sant'Andrea is the most great cathedral Mantua, it contains sacred relics - vases with the blood of Christ, collected from the wound of the Savior by the Roman legionnaire Longinus.

Every year on Good Friday, the Cathedral of Sant'Andrea hosts the opening ceremony of 12 caskets containing relics in an underground crypt. The keys are held by the church authorities and the administration of the city of Mantua.

Then, for a short time, the relics are at the foot of the statue of the crucified Christ on the left side of the apse of the cathedral. In the evening, a brief procession passes through the city, after which the relics again take their place in the caskets in the dungeon.

Near Sant'Andrea is the Rotunda of San Lorenzo, the most old church Mantua. The rotunda was built in the 11th century and is dedicated to the Great Martyr Lawrence. The external and internal appearance of the temple is almost a copy of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem.

The main cathedral of the city (Duomo di Mantova) is St. Peter's Basilica. The cathedral was built at the end of the 15th century and was repeatedly restored after fires.

Palazzo della Ragione with the clock tower is part of the complex of palaces and buildings of the Palazzo Ducale.

The Palazzo Ducale (Ducal Palace) in Mantua has been under construction for over 400 years and includes many buildings. Representatives of the ruling Gonzaga dynasty constantly expanded their main residence.

The total area of ​​​​all rooms of the Palazzo Ducale in Mantua is over 34,000 square meters. In addition, the complex includes 15 gardens and courtyards. The palace is comparable to the Vatican in its wealth.

Rigoletto's house in Mantua is an artificial attraction, because according to the plot of the opera, the jester lived outside the city. But tourists love it.

Inside Rigoletto's house is now a travel agency.

In 1978, a bronze statue of a jester was placed in the courtyard of the house.

Mantua has a great variety of interesting buildings, courtyards, towers and galleries.

Mantua has also been affected by the construction epidemic high towers in the Middle Ages. Very few of them have been preserved here. Pictured is the Torre della Gabbia tower.

The Palazzo Ducale seemed even larger at sunset.

The oldest part of the Palazzo Ducale is the Castello di San Giorgio, the castle of Saint George. A classic castle from fairy tales surrounded by water.

We left Mantua in the morning, taking panoramic pictures as parting.

It is necessary to come to this extraordinary city at least for a couple of days to see it properly. But in Italy there are many such places, and there is never time for a thorough examination ...