Bergamo is a unique city located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy and is characterized by its split lower and upper sections that are segregated by the immense historic Venetian walls. With a population of 120,000, this city is the fourth largest in the region, and its greater metropolitan area has a population of 500,000. Bergamo serves as the main transport hub for Italy and Europe with its busy Caravaggio International Airport and is also an important economic center for Lombardy. During the Middle Ages, Bergamo served as the seat of the Lombard Duchies and became a city of immense wealth due to the vast treasures stored there.
As an independent city, Bergamo was part of the Lombard League and raised armies to fight against Frederick I Barbarossa in the 12th century. During the 19th century, the city actually became part of the Austrian Empire before integrating into the Kingdom of Italy.
As a tourist destination, Bergamo has a wonderful combination of historical architecture, such as the Colleoni Chapel, combined with its strange dual-height Upper and Lower cities, and a plethora of gorgeous piazzas and high-quality shopping streets. Furthermore, the city lies in close proximity to Milan and serves as a great base from which you can explore this region of Northern Italy.