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, which dominates a very elegant square, surrounded by noble palaces and beautifully restored homes, and the Buonconsiglio Castle, the historic residence of the prince-bishops from the late 13th century to 1803, now the Provincial Museum of Art.
Built with stones from the nearby hill 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 at the European level as one of the highest examples of Gothic painting.
The unknown author, probably of Bohemian origin, depicts for each month scenes from court life and popular life, anticipating themes and subjects also dear to the Renaissance. But the city, nestled between the Adige River and the mountains, is itself a treasure trove of beauties, highlighted also by the contained dimensions of the center.
Not to be missed, for example, is the row of palaces lining Belenzani Street or the suggestive “tour of the Sass” (Pasi Square, Oss Mazzurana Street), which reveals Renaissance wonders, such as Palazzo Tabarelli, Palazzo Cazuffi with its frescoed facade, and Palazzo Festi, home of the Social Theater.
