The Bell Tower of Bergamo is a 12th-century gem that rises above the inspiring historic centre. It was built during an era when wealthy families competed with one another to make the highest tower. Relax in the charming Piazza Vecchia and gaze up at the impressive tower.
Enter the structure and climb up to its summit, which is the only point from which you can see both the Piazza Vecchia and the Piazza Duomo at the same time. The bell tower is 171 feet (52 metres) tall, making it the tallest of the city’s many towers.
For your journey to the top, choose between the narrow staircase and the glass elevator. Inspect the largest historic bell in the region, known to locals as the Big Bell. Snap photos of the wonderful, unique vista of the plazas and churches. The bell tower joins the Ragione Palace and the Podestà Palace.
Hear the 100 chimes of the bells in an event that takes place every evening at 10 p.m. This tradition has occurred daily for more than 350 years and was formerly used to warn residents about the closing of the town’s four entrance gates. Note that the bell also rings once every 30 minutes.
On the lower floor visit the museum that reveals the history of the region. Learn about the origins of the tower, which was used as the seat of the podestà, a level of high official in the Middle Ages.
Pay a fee to enter the bell tower or get free entrance with the Bergamo card. It opens daily Tuesday through Sunday from morning until evening, closing earlier in winter.
Find the Bell Tower in the Citta Alta (Upper Town) district in the heart of Bergamo. Take the funicular up to the heights of this historic centre and wander through the winding alleys for a few minutes to get here. See other sights in the area, including the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore, the Ragione Palace and the Santa Grata Church.
