Bergamo Fun Facts

Bergamo is a city that never ceases to amaze. Beyond its most famous monuments and main attractions, it holds a universe of anecdotes, legends, and curious details that reveal its most authentic soul. Strolling through the streets of the Città Alta and Città Bassa, you can discover unusual places, traditions passed down through the centuries, and peculiarities that make it one of a kind.
Every corner of the city tells a different story: from the origins of the names of its gates and historic neighborhoods, to the ancient artisan workshops that have remained unchanged over time, to the illustrious figures who have left a profound mark on Italian and European culture.
Discovering these curiosities means going beyond the surface, allowing yourself to be fascinated by a mosaic of small details that make Bergamo not just a destination to visit, but a place to experience and explore in depth.

Just as in Verona it is said to bring good luck to touch the breasts of Juliet's statue, in Bergamo tradition holds that to attract good luck, one must touch the famous "three balls of Colleoni."
This curious custom, passed down from generation to generation, is linked to the coat of arms of the famous condottiero Bartolomeo Colleoni, depicted with three balls. A small symbolic gesture that, according to legend, brings good luck and prosperity... try it and believe it!

Every evening, at 10:00 PM sharp, the famous bell in Piazza Vecchia rings out 100 times, a ritual rooted in the city's history.
In the past, this solemn ringing announced to residents the closing of the gates of the Upper Town, marking the beginning of the nightly curfew. Today, the traditional chime has become a symbol of Bergamo's identity and an evocative moment that takes you back in time.
If you find yourself in the square at dusk, look up and let yourself be carried away by this ancient tradition... are you ready to count to 100?

Dedicated to good food and local excellence, Bergamo is Italy's cheese capital. No other province can boast as many as nine DOP cheeses, evidence of a centuries-old cheesemaking tradition deeply rooted in the region.
Among these, Formai de Mut dell'Alta Val Brembana, Taleggio, Bitto, Strachìtunt, Gorgonzola, Quartirolo Lombardo, Salva Cremasco, Provolone Val Padana, and Grana Padano stand out. Added to these are the so-called "Principi delle Orobie," historic and typical cheeses from our mountains, true symbols of gastronomic identity. Discovering and tasting them means taking a journey through the authentic and unmistakable flavors of this extraordinary region.

More than just cheese: Bergamo's cuisine is rich in dishes passed down from generation to generation, and among these, His Majesty the Casoncello stands out.
This tasty traditional ravioli, born in the 14th century, is a true emblem of local gastronomy. Prepared according to ancient recipes and enriched with traditional seasonings, the casoncello recounts the history, culture, and love of good food that have characterized the Bergamo region for centuries.