After only a two hour drive from Milan you can be in the beautiful town of Mantova. Why go? The first view of Mantova as you drive up to it is stunning. Mantova is surrounded by three artificial lakes which were made in the 12th century, so your drive takes you on this bridge up to the ancient city centre. In the centre you have the Palazzo Ducale, a castle, the Rotunda, cathedrals and churches galore and you have the Palazzo Te. The Gonzaga family ruled Mantova for many years and left a legacy of great artistic value, although unfortunately some got lost/looted/destroyed over the years, there is an enormous amount left to admire.

The Palazzo Ducale is actually a group of buildings including the castle of St George and you need several hours to take in all the beautiful frescos and architectural delights, the most famous frescos being those by Mantegna in the Camera degli Sposi. Parts of the Palazzo Ducale date back to the 14th century and the Gonzaga family lives there until the start of the 18th century, it then went into decling till the process of restoration was begun in the 20th century.

The Palazzo Te was built later, between 1524 and 1534 for Federico II Gonzaga, Marquess of Mantova. He wanted a pleasure palace which he had the architect Giulio Roman, a pupil of Raphael, construct where the family stables where on the fringe of the marches at Isola del Te. It is a much smaller building than the Palazzo Ducale but well worth a visit with the Camera dei Giganti being a star attraction. Unfortunately in the mid 18th century it got ransacked and the rooms were emptied, luckily for us the frescos remain.

In the late afternoon we enjoyed a one hour boat trip along a couple of lakes and enjoyed the beautiful views of Mantova and the sunshine. We ate in the main square and enjoyed the great food the regions has to offer. We stayed in the residence incentro which had parking and was central enough for us to walk from the lake front and Palazzo Ducale to the Palazzo Te without any problems.

About half an hour away from Mantova is an another gem: Sabbioneta. It was founded by Vespasiano Gonzaga in the 16th century and was designed according the Renaissance principles of the Ideal City. You can visit the Palazzo Ducale, Teatro all‘antica, Galleria degli Antichi and the Palazzo del Giardino. We were particularly impressed with the little theatre and would love the chance to see a performance in it. We found an excellent little restaurant in the main square, Osteria la Dispensa.

Read more articles, news, and announcements in the November issue:
Benvenuto Evening group
FAWCO news
Thank you's
An inspiring encounter
Edward Hopper
Mobiles
Responding to Swine flu
Circolo Volta events
Photos from BV events
NtN Fundraiser
Benvenuto Wine Club
Classifieds
New Clubs: Walking & Mom & Toddlers