Sant'Alessandro Rampart - Bergamo

Welcome to the Spalto di Sant’Alessandro, a place of great significance for the city of Bergamo. Located in the upper part of the city, this rampart is part of the imposing Venetian walls, built in the 16th century, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its beauty and the panoramic view it offers, the rampart represents an important testimony to the military and architectural history of the region. Here we can immerse ourselves in the past and understand the strategic role it played in the defense of the city and in the daily life of the Bergamasques over the centuries.Origins and HistoryThe first settlement in the area of Spalto di Sant’Alessandro dates back to the Roman era when Bergamo was an important commercial and military center. However, it was with the arrival of the Venetians in 1428 that the face of the city began to change radically. The Venetians, committed to strengthening their positions in Lombardy, decided to build a defensive system around Bergamo, which included the walls and ramparts. The construction of the Venetian walls began in 1561 and was completed in 1588, a colossal work characterized by great architectural and strategic attention. Over the years, the rampart has undergone various transformations and restorations. During the 19th century, with the fall of the Austrian Empire, the city of Bergamo began to transform into a cultural and artistic center. The strategic posture of the Spalto di Sant’Alessandro still allows today for the admiration of the surrounding landscape, an aspect that has not gone unnoticed by visitors over the centuries. In 1887, during an important renovation, embellishments were made, which turned the site into a meeting point for citizens and tourists.Moving into the 20th century, the rampart continues to maintain its strategic and cultural importance. In the 1930s, the surrounding area underwent urban renewal that improved its accessibility, and during World War II, the walls were used as a shelter. Today, the Spalto di Sant’Alessandro is not only a passageway but has become a symbol of resilience and the history of Bergamo.What to ObserveAs we approach the Spalto di Sant’Alessandro, it is impossible not to notice its imposing façade. The walls, built of stone and brick, show signs of age, with their countless cracks and crevices that tell a centuries-old story. We begin our journey on the panoramic section, where one can admire the spectacular view over Bergamo and the surrounding valley. On beautiful days, the panorama is particularly striking, with the Alps in the background.Now let’s move towards the walkway. This guard passage, with its stone surface, allowed soldiers to monitor the surrounding areas. It is fascinating to think about how, centuries ago, soldiers walked these same paths. To the left, you can notice small openings, ancient arrow slits, used by defenders to observe and counter potential enemy attacks.Continuing the visit, to your right we find various sections of the walls that have been very well preserved. These structures showcase the characteristics of Venetian military architecture, with battlements and turrets that enhance the defensive strength of the entire structure. The turrets served not only as observation points but also as strategic spaces for launching projectiles against intruders.As we delve deeper, you will find a viewpoint that offers an intriguing view of Piazza Vecchia and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Imagine the life of the city in the 16th century when these places were buzzing with activity and the traffic of merchants and artists was incessant.Another element to observe is the vegetation that surrounds the rampart. The trees and gardens found here are not only a natural wonder, but they also contribute to creating an atmosphere of tranquility and reflection. Some of these trees are centuries old and deserve to be admired for their grandeur.We must not forget to mention the sculptures and commemorative monuments that are found along the walkway. These pieces, dating from different eras, tell the stories and deeds of significant figures in Bergamo’s history. Each of them has its own narrative, and by observing them, we connect with the lives of our predecessors.Finally, before concluding your visit, take a moment to savor the beauty of the sunset. The Spalto di Sant’Alessandro offers one of the best vantage points to see how the sun dips behind the mountains, painting the sky in golden and pink hues.Context and ConnectionsThe Spalto di Sant’Alessandro is located in the Città Alta district, the beating heart of Bergamo. This district, with its cobbled streets and historic buildings, is a crossroads of history and culture. A short distance away, we find the famous Piazza Vecchia, which is another hub of Bergamasque life. Here you can admire the Palazzo della Ragione and the Torre Civica, an example of medieval architecture that deserves a visit.Another point of interest nearby is the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a masterpiece of baroque art, which houses works by artists such as Giovan Battista Guarinoni. The basilica is not only a place of worship but also an important testimony to the history of the city and its cultural influences.As you continue your walk, don’t forget to visit the Cappella Colleoni, a funerary monument dedicated to the condottiero Bartolomeo Colleoni. This chapel, built in the 15th century, is an extraordinary example of Renaissance architecture and contains works of great artistic value.CuriositiesOne of the curiosities about the Spalto di Sant’Alessandro is its role in the everyday life of Bergamo. Before the modern era, this site was a meeting place for citizens, where social and cultural events took place. It is reported that in centuries past, locals used the walls as a place for strolling and gathering, establishing a tradition that continues today.Additionally, the system of Venetian walls, of which the rampart is a part, is considered one of the most significant examples of Renaissance fortifications in Europe. This fact highlights not only its historical importance but also situates it within a broader context of architectural and urban studies.Finally, another interesting aspect concerns the restoration and preservation of the walls. In recent years, restoration work has been carried out to preserve this heritage, making it accessible for everyone to learn about and appreciate the history of Bergamo.In conclusion, we invite you to discover other treasures nearby, such as the Museo del Cinquecento and the Rocca di Bergamo, which along with the Spalto di Sant’Alessandro, offer an unforgettable journey through history and culture. Happy exploring!