Torre del Campanone, Bergamo

Tower in Bergamo

Torre del Campanone Bergmao
Torre del Campanone Bergmao
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Calips

Standing proudly in the center of Piazza Vecchia, the Torre del Campanone - also known as the Civic Tower - is one of Bergamo's most iconic landmarks. Rising 52.76 meters above the square, this medieval tower offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city, from the terracotta rooftops of Città Alta to the plains stretching toward Milan. Once a symbol of civic authority, it now stands as a peaceful vantage point where history, architecture, and beauty converge.

The tower remains a highlight of any walking tour of Bergamo, especially at sunset when the warm light bathes the city in golden hues. Its deep, resonant bell - still rung 100 times each evening - recalls a centuries-old tradition that once signaled the closing of the city gates. Whether you ascend by stairs or elevator, reaching the top is one of the must-see experiences in Bergamo for anyone eager to grasp the city's medieval grandeur from above.

History and Significance of Torre del Campanone

The Torre del Campanone dates back to the 12th century, when Bergamo was a powerful medieval commune. Built as part of the city's civic complex, it served both as a watchtower and a bell tower, symbolizing the authority of the local government seated in the adjacent Palazzo della Ragione. Its strategic position in Piazza Vecchia - once the political and social hub of Bergamo - allowed guards to oversee the city and signal important events to the citizens below.

Over the centuries, the tower has endured wars, reconstructions, and the transformation of Bergamo's skyline. The current bell, cast in 1656, became a vital part of local life, marking not only time but also warnings and celebrations. Managed today by the Bergamo History Foundation as part of the Bergamo History Museum network, the Campanone continues to connect the city's medieval past with its living present.

Things to See and Do in Torre del Campanone

Climbing the Torre del Campanone is a memorable experience that rewards visitors with unparalleled views of Bergamo's Città Alta and beyond. At the summit, you can see Piazza Vecchia, the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, and the surrounding Venetian Walls that frame the historic city. Clear days offer sweeping views extending toward the Po Valley and the Alps.

Inside, interpretive displays detail the tower's history and its role within the civic life of Bergamo. Visitors can witness the nightly bell-ringing at 10 PM, a tradition that once signaled the closing of the city's gates - a haunting and beautiful echo of the Middle Ages. For photographers, the tower's vantage point provides some of the best panoramic shots in the region. This spot is one of the best places to see in Bergamo for those who appreciate a mix of history, architecture, and atmosphere.

How to Get There

The Torre del Campanone is located in Piazza Vecchia, at the heart of Bergamo's Città Alta. To reach it, take the funicular or ATB bus line 1 from the lower city, departing every ten minutes from Bergamo train station. Use Omnio to easily compare schedules, book train tickets, and find the best prices all in one place for a hassle-free journey across Italy.
If driving, the nearest parking options are Piazza della Cittadella and Parcheggio Mercato del Fieno. If you are looking to rent a car in Italy I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting Torre del Campanone

  • Best time to visit Torre del Campanone: Late afternoon for panoramic views and the golden light of sunset
  • Entrance fee in Euros: Around €5 for adults; discounts for children and families
  • Opening hours: Typically 10:00 AM-6:00 PM (seasonal variations apply)
  • Official website: www.museodellestorie.bergamo.it
  • How long to spend: 30-45 minutes for the climb and views
  • Accessibility: Elevator available for most of the ascent; stairs for the final section
  • Facilities: Small exhibition area and restrooms nearby in Piazza Vecchia
  • Photography tip: Capture the evening bell ceremony or early morning mist over the rooftops
  • Guided tours: Offered by the Bergamo History Museum; booking recommended in peak season
  • Nearby food options: Caffè del Tasso and Il Sole restaurant for dining with historic charm nearby

Is Torre del Campanone worth visiting?

Without question. The Campanone encapsulates the essence of Bergamo's medieval identity while offering some of the best views in Lombardy. Its deep historical roots and striking vistas make it one of the top attractions in Bergamo, appealing to photographers, history lovers, and anyone who enjoys panoramic cityscapes.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.8 (1,198)

Campanone, on Piazza Vecchia in Bergamo Alta, is a medieval tower originally built for the Suardi family that rewards visitors with sweeping panoramic views; guests praise the spectacular outlook from its upper platforms, the chance to hear the bell while taking in the city, and a small archaeological/interactive museum inside that can be combined with tower entry, while a nearby historic café makes the square a pleasant, calm place to linger.

Marc-André Giroux
4 months ago
"Probably the highlight of my day in Bergamo! I arrived 5 minutes before they opened the doors and I had the tower for myself for about 10 minutes.The view is truly spectacular! Tickets are only a couple of euros and you can also combine the campanone and the museum inside which was interesting but the view is what makes it so worth visiting!..."
Dejan Braki
6 months ago
"Such towers were very popular all over northern Italy during the medieval ages. They expressed the wealth of families who built it, but very fewremained today. This tower is in the very center of Bergamo upper town, on the main Piazza Vecchia square. Entry ticket of 7 Euros includes climbing the top with an elevator, as well a small archaeological museum down. Views from up (there're two platforms) are stu ing, with both upper and lower Bergamo, as well half Lombardy on a clear day..."
Martin Kostov
2 months ago
"Amazing view from the top of the tower and a very good interactive museum."

FAQs for Visiting

Yes, visitors can reach the top via elevator or stairs for panoramic views.
The bell rings every evening at 10 PM, a centuries-old tradition marking the closing of the city gates.
Yes, an elevator covers most of the ascent, with a few final steps at the top.
Tickets can be purchased on-site, though advance booking is recommended in summer.
Yes, but the best visibility and photographs are on clear days.

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The Torre del Campanone appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Bergamo!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

10am-6pm Tue-Fri, to 8pm Sat & Sun Apr-Oct, reduced hours winter

Price:

adult/reduced incl Podestà €5/3

Address: Campanone, Piazza Vecchia, Bergamo, Province of Bergamo, Italy
Bergamo: 0 km

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