The Torre del Gombito is easily seen from far away. If height and some climbing are not problems, then it’s definitely worth visiting the tower. Being located in the old upper portion of the city, the tower is already elevated at this spot. Climb to the top and instantly you and your camera are 171 feet (52 metres) higher.
Look around at the panorama and see the old and new portions of Bergamo below, followed by plains and hills. The Alps and the Apennines form a scenic horizon. On a clear day, spot Milan from the tower.
The stone structure was built in the 13th century to complement the walls as a lookout for any invaders. Like the walls, the structure was never attacked. Imagine looking out over the countryside in medieval times, scanning the area for hostile armies.
The tower also had another function of controlling who came into the town’s centre, the Piazza Vecchia. Under the control of the Republic of Venice, security was definitely an issue even then. Picture people from the surrounding villages trying to access the main square through the narrow road in front of the Gombito Tower.
Climb to the top of the tower and be rewarded with an incredible view, but realise that the ascent is a bit of a challenge. An elevator doesn’t exist, so visitors have to be prepared to go up 263 steps, and of course, return the same way. The tower allows only 10 people at a time to go to the top. Reserve your climb at the tourist office and be sure to wear sensible shoes.
Although admittance and the climb are free, the Torre del Gombito is only open certain times of the year, and even then it’s not every day. Check with the tourist office for its hours of operation. Include this panoramic viewpoint as a highlight of your trip to Bergamo.
