Crossroads between the Nordic and Mediterranean worlds, a meeting place between Germanic and Latin cultures, Trento boasts one of the best-preserved historic centers in Italy, whose symbols are the imposing Romanesque Cathedral, dominating a very elegant square surrounded by noble palaces and beautifully restored residences, and the Buonconsiglio Castle, the historic residence of the prince-bishops from the late 13th century until 1803, now a Provincial Art Museum.
Built with stones from nearby hillside quarries, constantly expanded and embellished, the Buonconsiglio Castle houses, in the south tower called the Eagle Tower, the Cycle of the Months, a series of frescoes dated around 1400, recognized across Europe as one of the highest examples of Gothic painting.
The unknown author, likely of Bohemian origin, depicts scenes of court life and popular life for each month, anticipating themes and subjects dear also to the Renaissance. But the city, nestled between the Adige River and the mountains, is itself a treasure trove of beauties, emphasized also by the compact size of the center.
Not to be missed, for example, is the row of palaces lining via Belenzani or the evocative “giro al Sass” (Piazza Pasi, via Oss Mazzurana), which reveals Renaissance wonders such as Palazzo Tabarelli, Palazzo Cazuffi with its frescoed façade, and Palazzo Festi, home to the Teatro Sociale.
