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Civic Tower - Campanone

From the city’s highest tower a view you can’t forget.

Description

In the heart of Piazza Vecchia in Bergamo stands majestically the Civic Tower, known to the people of Bergamo as the Campanone (or Campanù in dialect). This historic monument is one of the city’s most fascinating attractions, with its 52.76 meters height and unparalleled panoramic views of the city and the Orobian Pre-Alps.

Why Visit the Civic Tower of Bergamo?

  • Thousand-year history: A symbol of the city that tells of Bergamo’s medieval past.
  • Unique tradition: The exciting ritual of a hundred chimes every night at 10 pm.
  • Unparalleled view: A vantage point that provides unique views of the city and beyond.
  • Accessibility: Both walking and elevator accessibility.

If you are looking for an authentic experience among history, tradition and breathtaking views, the Civic Tower of Bergamo is a must-see!

History of the Civic Tower

The Civic Tower boasts a history dating back thousands of years. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries by the powerful Suardi family, it originally served as a tower house. In the 14th century it was transformed into a hospice for the municipal rectors and, in time, also became the site of the city jails. During the Middle Ages, noble families competed in building taller and taller towers, a symbol of prestige and power.

In the 14th century, the municipality of Bergamo purchased the tower and equipped it with a bell system to mark time and alert the population in case of emergency. Prominent among these is the Campanone, the largest bell in Lombardy, blessed in 1656 and the protagonist of one of the city’s most heartfelt traditions.

The Tradition of the Hundred Chimes

Every night at 10 p.m., the Campanone rings one hundred chimes, keeping alive a tradition that dates back to the time of the Republic of Venice. This evocative ritual is loved by residents and visitors alike, adding a magical touch to Bergamo nights.

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How to Reach the Campanone

Visiting the Campanone is an accessible experience for everyone. You can climb to the top by walking up the 230 steps or opt for a convenient elevator. Once at the top, you will find the largest bell in Lombardy, a true masterpiece that weighs over 6 tons.

Originally 37 meters high, the Civic Tower has undergone extensions over the centuries to reach its current height of 56 meters, making it the tallest tower in the city. From the top there are spectacular views of Upper and Lower Bergamo, the surrounding plain and the Orobian Pre-Alps.

Bells

The Civic Tower houses a concert of three bells, each with a unique history and characteristics.

The largest and most famous is the Campanone, cast in 1656 by Veronese master Bartolomeo Pisenti. With a diameter of 2.07 meters and a weight of about 5,580 kg, this bell is embellished with Latin inscriptions celebrating happy and sacred events. The Campanone is well known for its hundred evening chimes, commemorating the closing of the city gates during the Venetian era.

All of the bells in the Civic Tower are now equipped with electrified systems that allow for momentum ringing and the use of electro-beating, thus ensuring the continuity of the city’s sound traditions.

Breathtaking Views from the Top

From the top of the tower there is a spectacular view of Upper Bergamo and its historic walls. The view sweeps to the surrounding mountains and offers a unique glimpse of the city’s architectural beauty.

Price

ENTRANCE TO CAMPANONE + PALAZZO DEL PODESTÀ

Full 5€
Reduced 3€ friends of the Museum of Bergamo stories, university students up to 26 years old, Italian Touring Club members, FAI members, groups of at least 15 ps

Reduced 1€ children and young people from 11 to 17 years old

Free ticket: children from 0 to 10 years old, disabled people, ICOM members, journalists, qualified guides, Abbonamento Musei Lombardia

Opening times

Tue-Fri | 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sat-Sun and holidays | 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Dec. 8, Dec. 26 & Jan. 6 | 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Dec. 31 | 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Jan. 1 | 2-7 p.m.
Jan.
2 | 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Closed Mondays, Dec. 25

Where it is located

Old Square, 24129, Bergamo, Bergamo

Accessibility

Data sheet

Useful information

Old Square, 24129, Bergamo, Bergamo
info@museodellestorie.bergamo.it
Open
Lun
Closed
Mar
10:00 - 18:00
Mer
10:00 - 18:00
Gio
10:00 - 18:00
Ven
10:00 - 18:00
Sab
10:00 - 19:00
Dom
10:00 - 19:00
Read more
+39 035247116
Accessibility 
Suitable for children
€1 - €5
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