Bergamo Hills Park - Bergamo

Welcome to the Park of the Hills of Bergamo, a natural area that represents not only a green lung for the city but also an essential element of its cultural and historical identity. Located in the immediate vicinity of the city of Bergamo, the park covers approximately 800 hectares of hills, woods, and meadows, offering an extraordinary view of the city’s classic monuments, particularly the historic Città Alta, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 201With its rich biodiversity and dense pathways, the Park of the Hills is also an example of how humans can coexist in harmony with nature. It was established in 1983, but the area was already known and appreciated by the people of Bergamo long before then, becoming an important place for recreation and reflection.Origins and HistoryThe origins of the Park of the Hills of Bergamo are rooted in centuries of history. As the city of Bergamo grew and developed, these hills were already used for agriculture and livestock due to the mild climate and fertile soil. During the Renaissance, in particular, these areas began to be valued for recreational purposes by noble families, who built residences and villas there.The park as we know it today has undergone a series of significant transformations. In the 1970s, with the urban expansion of Bergamo, the dangers associated with the loss of green spaces became increasingly evident. Thus, in 1983, thanks to a significant ecological mobilization and the commitment of local associations, the Park of the Hills was established to preserve this precious area. The goal was to protect the scenic and environmental characteristics, as well as to promote sustainable tourism.Over the years, the park has experienced various restoration and maintenance interventions, ultimately becoming a model of ecological management. The creation of bike paths, nature trails, and equipped areas has made the park accessible to an increasingly broad audience, inviting residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.What to ObserveFauna and FloraAs you enter the Park of the Hills, you will notice an incredible variety of plants and animals. This area is an important refuge for wildlife, with over 150 species of birds and various mammals, including foxes and deer. The vegetation is very diverse, with flowering meadows, oak and beech forests, creating an ideal habitat for biodiversity.The TrailsThe well-marked and accessible trails wind through the woods and hills, offering you the possibility of walking, jogging, or hiking. Among the most famous is the Tognini Valley trail, which allows you to immerse yourself in nature and discover hidden corners of the park. Each path is enhanced by informative signs that tell the history and biodiversity of the area.The BelvedereHeading towards the San Vigilio belvedere, you will find a breathtaking view of the city of Bergamo and the surrounding plain. From here, you can admire the red roofs of Città Alta and the imposing Venetian walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This area is particularly picturesque at sunset when the sky takes on warm colors, and the landscape transforms into a living picture.The Remains of Ancient VillasWe invite you to explore the remains of ancient noble villas, such as Villa Ruccellai and Villa Vanga. These historic residences date back to different periods and offer an interesting glimpse into the aristocratic life of the past. The villas are surrounded by green spaces and historical parks, which testify to the importance of these families over the centuries.The Church of San VigilioNot far from the belvedere, you will find the Church of San Vigilio, a place of great spiritual and cultural significance for the community. Built in the 7th century, the church is dedicated to the patron saint of Bergamo and houses significant works of art, including frescoes that depict the saint’s life. The church is an example of medieval architecture and represents an important landmark for the worship of the people of Bergamo.The Botanical GardenWithin the park, there is also a botanical garden that hosts various species of local plants and more. Here, you can admire rare plants and learn more about the importance of conserving native flora. It is an ideal place to spend a moment of calm and contemplation, surrounded by the beauty of nature.The Picnic AreaFinally, we invite you to stop at the picnic area, where families and groups of friends can enjoy their lunch surrounded by greenery. This area is equipped with tables and benches, providing a perfect opportunity for a refreshing break during your visit. Here, you can reflect on what you have seen and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the park.Context and ConnectionsThe Park of the Hills of Bergamo is situated in a context of great natural and cultural value. It is an integral part of Bergamo’s history and represents a fundamental link between the urban area and the surrounding environment. Near the park, you can visit other important attractions, such as the Venetian Walls that surround Città Alta, and the Castle of San Vigilio, an ancient bastion with a spectacular view of the city. Moreover, the Museum of the History of Bergamo is just a short walk from the park, offering a fascinating overview of the history of this region.CuriositiesAn interesting curiosity is that the Park of the Hills hosts the “Path of Flavors,” a trail that celebrates Bergamo’s gastronomy through food and wine routes that highlight the typical products of the area. These trails are designed to offer not only sensory experiences but also the opportunity to discover local culinary culture.Another peculiarity is that the park is an important study site for ecologists and naturalists, who use this environment to conduct research on biodiversity and climate change. The presence of diverse animal and plant species makes it a valuable natural laboratory.Finally, it is interesting to know that the Park of the Hills is part of the Natura 2000 Network, an initiative of the European Union aimed at protecting natural areas of great ecological value. This recognition emphasizes the importance of preserving the environment for future generations.We thank you for joining us on this exploration of the Park of the Hills of Bergamo. We invite you to continue your discovery by visiting the Venetian Walls and the Castle of San Vigilio, two extraordinary testimonies to the rich cultural heritage of the city. Enjoy your visit!