Mantua

Why choose this Tour

Mantua, the city of the Gonzagas, is a hidden gem that fascinates all who visit it. With its discreet charm and rich history, it offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Together with Sabbioneta, it has been recognized as a world heritage site by UNESCO for its extraordinary historic center, a network of palaces, churches and squares that tell the story of the powerful Gonzaga family.

Mantua stands like an island in the middle of the lakes formed by the Mincio river, before it continues its course towards the Po. According to legend, the city was founded by Ocnò, son of the Tiber and the seer Manto. Numerous discoveries attest to its Etruscan origins.

Mantua's fame is mainly linked to the Gonzaga family, who ruled the city for over three centuries (1328-1707), attracting the greatest artists of the time to their court. Their legacy includes two of the most extraordinary palaces in Italy:

Doge's Palace, with the famous Camera Picta by Andrea Mantegna.
Palazzo Te, known for the spectacular frescoes by Giulio Romano.

Tour details

Here is an itinerary to discover Mantua with an authorized guide.

Castle of San Giorgio and Camera Picta

The tour begins with a visit to the Castle of San Giorgio and the Picta Room, also known as the Camera degli Sposi. This masterpiece by Andrea Mantegna, created between 1465 and 1474, celebrates the Gonzaga dynasty with extraordinary illusionistic frescoes.

Piazza Sordello

A short walk away is Piazza Sordello, the political and religious heart of the city. It is overlooked by:

St. Peter's Cathedral, a building of great historical value.
The Doge's Palace, former residence of the Gonzaga family.

Piazza Broletto and Piazza delle Erbe

The tour continues to Piazza Broletto, which was once the city's administrative, political, judicial, and economic center. From here, we reach Piazza delle Erbe, the hub of Mantua's economic and social life.

Next to the square stands the Basilica of Sant'Andrea, considered a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Designed by Leon Battista Alberti, it is one of the most representative buildings of the period.

Church of San Lorenzo

Before leaving Piazza delle Erbe, we recommend a visit to the Church of San Lorenzo, built in 1083. Remaining closed for centuries and almost hidden among the houses, it was rediscovered only in the last century.

Palazzo Te

The last stop on the tour is Palazzo Te, designed by Giulio Romano between 1525 and 1534 in a suburban area called Teieto. This villa is one of the most spectacular of the Gonzaga family, and is famous for its frescoed rooms: