Mantova
Mantua, situated in the heart of the Po Valley, is a unique city, standing on three lakes fed by the Mincio River, which bless the city with a magnificent panorama, especially when appreciated from above.
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A Short History of The City
The city was ruled by the Gonzaga family, who occupied the Ducal Palace from 1328 until 1707. The Palace is the result of the union of several 16th-century buildings, later expanded by the Gonzagas to create the Corte Vecchia. Unfortunately, much of the palace’s original contents were sold off during difficult times by Gonzagas , leaving little behind. However, it is still possible to admire the cycle of frescoes that Pisanello painted inside the Palace walls.
Following the sack of Mantua, the city entered a period of decline, forcing the Gonzaga family to pass the territories to the Habsburgs.
A visit to Palazzo Te, designed by Giulio Romano, Raphael’s esteemed pupil, is a must. The palace derives its name from an island called Teieto, situated not far from Mantua’s location.
Mantua, Treasures of Art and History
The palace captivates visitors even in the smallest details, with G.Romano’s “Room of the Giants” stands out as particularly noteworthy. Romano employed an innovative perspective technique that remained unmatched for years. He skillfully painted the entire wall from floor to ceiling, creating an illusion that centers the viewer within the scene.
The Castle of San Giorgio preserves the most important work of art in Mantua: Mantegna’s Bridal Chamber,This masterpiece portrays members of the Gonzaga Family.
In the Church of Sant’Andrea, the cup containing the blood of Christ, known as the Holy Grail, is preserved. According to legend, it was collected by the Roman centurion Longinus at the foot of the Cross after piercing Jesus Christ’s side.
A Journey Through History, Architecture, and Cuisine
In Piazza delle Erbe, visitors can marvel at the Rotunda of San Lorenzo, which was modeled after the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. This ancient church, with its central plan, stands as the oldest church in Mantua. Piazza delle Erbe in many cities of Veneto and Lombardy stands for the city’s function as a commercial place as well as a meeting place, here you will find many bars, restaurants, and the iconic Astronomical Clock Tower alongside the Palazzo della Ragione.
Piazza Piazza Sordello holds significant historical importance, as it marks the founding site of the city and is named after the well_known Italian troubadour of Dante’s time.
Mantua’s culinary tradition is equally as rich as its architectural heritage.Enjoy local specialties such as pumpkin tortelli, “pilot” risotto, bigoli, and polenta with pike, all accompanied by exquisite Grana, Parmigiano, and mostarda. Meat lovers will delight in the array of dishes available, from tender braised meats to hearty stracotto and succulent boiled meats And for a sweet ending, you cannot miss sbrisolona.
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