Rocca di Bergamo (Fortress of Bergamo), Bergamo (must see)

The Fortress of Bergamo is situated in the upper part of the city on the hill of Sant'Eufemia. It commands a view of the lower city and the surrounding plains to the south, while to the north, it overlooks the majestic Orobie mountains. The fortress is home to the Museum of the Nineteenth Century, which is part of the Bergamo History Museum network managed by the "Bergamo in history" foundation.

The construction of the fortress began in 1331, the same year Bergamo was donated to the King of Bohemia. It is believed that the structure was built upon a pre-existing Roman fortification. The works were carried out under the coordination of Guglielmo di Castelbarco, the king's vicar, and were later continued by the Visconti family. Azzone Visconti completed the fortress in 1336, adding fortification works to enhance its defensive capabilities against both external and internal enemies, as well as to suppress any potential rebellions.

The Rocca served its military function throughout various historical periods, including the Napoleonic era from 1797 to 1814 and the subsequent Austro-Hungarian rule from 1814 to June 8, 1859, when it was liberated by Garibaldi. The Austrians further strengthened the fortress around 1850. In 1927-1933, the complex underwent extensive restoration after being transferred from the state to the Municipality of Bergamo. The restoration aimed to preserve the fortress's original appearance and transform it into an ideal place for commemorating the history of the Risorgimento in Bergamo.

The square in front of the fortress serves as a venue for celebratory events. The elevated position of the Rocca, particularly the tower of the keep, offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the plain and the Orobie mountains, attracting a significant number of tourists. Adjacent to the fortress is the Parco delle Rimembranze, which features tombstones and memorials of numerous military units that participated in the two world wars. Among the notable exhibits is a 75/18 self-propelled tank.