St Alexander Bastion - Head - Bergamo

The Bastion of Sant’Alessandro, a highly significant work in the context of the fortification of Bergamo. This structure, dating back to the 16th century, was an integral part of the city’s defense system while it was under the dominion of the Republic of Venice. The bastion is named after Saint Alessandro, the patron saint of Bergamo, and is known for its military architecture that reflects the strategic needs of the time. Furthermore, the Bastion of Sant’Alessandro represents one of the most picturesque viewpoints in Bergamo, offering a delightful view of the city and the surrounding landscape.Origins and HistoryThe Bastion of Sant’Alessandro was built between 1561 and 1571 as part of the extensive fortification project desired by the Venetians to protect Bergamo from incursions. The city was strategically located between the Milanese territory and the area of the Serenissima, making its fortifications crucial. The construction of the bastion was entrusted to the Venetian architect Francesco Maria Richini, who designed a work that combines functionality with imposing aesthetic features.The bastion has a plant in the shape of a truncated pyramid, characterized by strong limestone and terracotta walls, making it resilient and difficult to breach. Between 1680 and 1700, the bastion underwent significant modifications, with the addition of towers and walkways capable of providing better protection against enemy attacks, evolving over time in response to changes in military technologies.Over the centuries, the bastion experienced a period of abandonment and degradation, but in the 20th century it underwent several restorations. Among the most significant interventions, the one that took place between 1950 and 1970 revealed some of its original features and facilitated public access. Today, the Bastion of Sant’Alessandro is an integral part of the Città Alta of Bergamo, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2017, together with the city’s fortification system.What to ObserveLet’s begin our exploration of the Bastion of Sant’Alessandro. Upon arrival, what immediately strikes is the majesty of the facade. The imposing walls rise towards the sky, offering an immediate sense of security and solidity. The stone used for construction has warm tones that play with the sunlight, creating a fascinating visual effect.Moving further, we notice the architectural details. The battlements, for instance, decorative and functional, served in the past to provide shelter to soldiers during sieges. Each merlon, based on precise proportions, highlights not only the skill of the architects but also the level of sophistication of military engineering at the time.To the left of the bastion, we find the main entrance. A massive oak door, reinforced with metal nails, was a strong deterrent for attackers. Above it, the fresco depicting Saint Alessandro, created in later periods, testifies to the religious and cultural importance of the site. This combination of architecture and spirituality is a peculiar characteristic of the city of Bergamo.Entering inside the bastion, there are walkways from which one can observe the stunning panorama that extends over the underlying Bergamasque landscape. Visitors can admire not only the city but also the Alps that frame the horizon. These walkways offer a privileged view and allow one to perceive how the fortification was strategically positioned to warn of possible threats.Speaking of significant elements, I would like to draw your attention to the watchtowers. These, erected at the corners of the bastion, served not only as observation points but also as shelters for the troops. Their circular shape and openings allowed for a complete view, thereby reinforcing the defense against surprise attacks.Another aspect to notice is the drainage channels, designed to divert rainwater and ensure the stability of the structure. These details, often overlooked, reveal the care with which each part of the bastion was designed.Finally, we conclude our visit by observing the small garden that blooms within the bastion. This green space, carefully tended, offers a harmonious touch of life next to the rigid military architecture. It represents a place of reflection, helping to create a connection between the past and the present.Context and ConnectionsThe Bastion of Sant’Alessandro is located within the Città Alta of Bergamo, a district rich in history and culture. Its strategic position not only served to protect the city but also connected various civic institutions, such as the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore and the Cathedral of Bergamo, which were evidently influenced by the defensive context.A short distance away, another place of notable interest is the Castle of San Vigilio, which, like the bastion, tells stories of wars and defense. Additionally, we cannot forget the Venetian Walls, also a UNESCO World Heritage site, which complete Bergamo’s defensive system and extend for about 5 kilometers around the city.Finally, it is worth mentioning the Museum of the Rocca and the Donizetti Museum. These places, although different in essence, contribute to describing the cultural fabric of Bergamo, making the visit to the Bastion even more significant.CuriositiesVisit the bastion on the anniversary of its construction: October 19, a date celebrated by Bergamo to renew the historical importance of this monumental work. During winter, the bastion is also a center for cultural activities, hosting contemporary art exhibitions that create a dialogue between the ancient and the modern.Another curiosity pertains to the choice of Saint Alessandro as the patron. His figure is associated with the city’s history, recounting its most tumultuous phases and celebrating the resilience and strength of the people of Bergamo.Finally, during some restorations, an underground cistern was discovered, used in the past to supply water during sieges. This discovery amazed archaeologists, revealing further layers of history hidden beneath the surface of the beautiful bastion.We conclude this exploration of the Bastion of Sant’Alessandro with an invitation to explore the Venetian Walls and the Castle of San Vigilio. Both places offer a profound insight into the history of Bergamo and represent a continuation of the journey that begins here at the bastion. Enjoy your visit!