184. Bergamo’s Citta Bassa, A Northern Italian Treasure

Kimberly and Tommaso share their experiences in Città Bassa, the lower city of Bergamo. They highlight the area’s unique piazzas, shopping streets, and cultural landmarks. They also touch on Bergamo’s sister city relationship with Greenville, South Carolina.

Key Points:

• Introduction to Città Bassa: Unlike Città Alta, Città Bassa is the working part of the city, with wide, tree-lined streets.
• The Funicular Ride: Quick and easy access from Città Alta, offering views of the city and landscape.

Piazza Pontida:

• Historical Significance: Originally referred to as Cinque Vie, a convergence point of five streets where merchants would sell their goods.
• Architectural Features: Porticos and arcades dating back to the 15th century.
• Modern Charm: Now a piazza with shops, cafes, and trattorias.

Borgo Palazzo Neighborhood:

• Parrucchieri Paradise: Numerous hair salons (Parruchieri in Italian), nail salons, and other beauty treatments are located on Via Borgo Palazzo.
• Tommaso humorously suggests renaming the street Via Parrucchieri.

Culinary Experience at Caprizza Bergamo:

• Pizza Recommendation: Despite nonchalant staff, the Napolitana style pizza was excellent.
• Menu Highlights: Kimberly enjoyed buffalo mozzarella with yellow cherry tomatoes and Parmigiano-Reggiano, while Tommaso had a Parma ham and mozzarella pizza.

Via Pignolo:

• Street Details: Hand-laid bricks and cut stone designs on the sidewalks and streets.
• Craftsmanship Appreciation: Noticing and appreciating the craftsmanship in every street and sidewalk.

Venetian Walls and Viale della Mura:

• Ancient Walls: Built in the mid-1500s and remarkably well-maintained.
• Scenic Views: Walking along Viale della Mura, offering views of the city.

Bergamo and Greenville, South Carolina: Sister Cities

• Primary Goal: To promote peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation.

Commonalities Between Bergamo and Greenville:

• Textile Industry: Historical professional and personal relationships.
• Science and Education: Bergamo Science Festival and Greenville’s Imagine STEAM event.
• Music: Teatro Donizetti in Bergamo and the Greenville Symphony.

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