About the Campanone
The Campanone, also known as the Civic Tower or Torre Civica, stands in Piazza Vecchia in Bergamo, Italy. It began as a medieval house-tower and later became a public civic symbol, serving as a defensive structure, prison, bell tower and civic clock. Today, it remains a landmark in the city and offers panoramic views of the old city, the pre-Alps and the Lombard plains (Museo delle Storie di Bergamo; Visit Bergamo).
History
Construction began in the mid-12th century, when the influential Suardi-Colleoni family built the tower as a house-tower combining residential and defensive functions (Museo delle Storie di Bergamo).
When Bergamo was an independent township, the tower passed from private ownership to public property, becoming a symbol of civic identity. This transition took place alongside the development of the Palazzo del Podestà. By the late 1200s and early 1300s, the tower had an imposing bell and a mechanical clock. Prison cells were established at its base in the 1300s, reflecting its role in the city’s governance and security.
Between the late 1300s and early 1400s, a mechanical clock was added to the façade facing Piazza Vecchia. It marked civic and secular time, independent of religious and clerical schedules. Its bells announced the hours and complemented those in nearby Piazza Duomo, which marked liturgical events and rural workdays.
In 1550, the Municipality of Bergamo decided to raise the tower to accommodate a larger belfry. Its height increased from 37.7 meters to its current 52.76 meters, giving the Torre Civica its present form. A statue of Saint Alexander was added at the top in the 1600s. Modern renovations in the 1960s included the installation of a lift.
During Venetian rule, the Campanone played a role in the city’s defense and administration. Every evening at 10 pm, its bell chimes 100 times, continuing a tradition from the Venetian era. The nightly ringing originally reminded residents that the city gates along the Venetian walls were closing and marked the beginning of curfew (Italy Magazine).
The tower’s evolution from a private residence to a civic landmark reflects changes in Bergamo’s history and culture. Its presence and nightly chimes continue to connect the past with the present (Lonely Planet).
What to see
The tower houses the largest historical bell in Lombardy, known as the Campanone. Cast by Bartolomeo Pesenti, the bronze bell measures 213 cm in diameter and 220 cm in height, and weighs 5,500 kg. Its casting involved several attempts: the first mold exploded in 1652; a second attempt in 1653 initially succeeded, but the bell broke a few months later. The final successful casting took place on March 23, 1656.
Visitors can see the mechanical clock on the façade facing Piazza Vecchia and enjoy views of the old city, the pre-Alps and the Lombard plains. The top can be reached by climbing 230 steps or taking the lift (Visit Bergamo).
Practical visiting information
Visiting hours
The Campanone is open Tuesday to Friday from 10 am to 6 pm, and on weekends and holidays from 10 am to 7 pm. It is closed on Mondays and December 25th (Visit Bergamo).
Tickets
Ticket prices vary, with discounts available for students, residents and groups. Check the official website for the latest pricing information and special offers (Visit Bergamo).
Tours and events
Visitors can explore independently or join a guided tour for more in-depth historical context. Throughout the year, the Campanone also hosts special events, including historical reenactments, cultural festivals and nighttime tours. The official website’s event calendar has information about these events.
Accessibility
The lift makes the tower more accessible to visitors with mobility issues, although some areas may still require climbing stairs. Contact the visitor center in advance for detailed accessibility information.
Tips
- When to visit Spring and autumn are suggested as the best times to visit Bergamo and the Campanone, when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded.
- Local cuisine Bergamo’s local dishes and treats include polenta, casoncelli and Stracciatella ice cream.
- Transportation Bergamo is connected by public transportation. The funicular railway travels between the upper and lower parts of the city.
- Language Italian is the primary language spoken in Bergamo. Many locals understand and speak basic English, especially in tourist areas.
Nearby places
The Campanone is surrounded by historic landmarks, including the Palazzo della Ragione and the Contarini Fountain. The Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore is also nearby. These attractions are within walking distance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Campanone visiting hours?
See “Visiting hours” above.
Are guided tours available?
Yes. See “Tours and events” above.
How much do tickets cost?
Prices vary, with discounts for students, residents and groups. See “Tickets” above.
Is the Campanone accessible to visitors with mobility issues?
The tower has a lift, but some areas may still require stairs. See “Accessibility” above.
What other attractions are nearby?
The Palazzo della Ragione, Contarini Fountain and Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore are within walking distance.
