Visit Cremona
Cremona is set on the plains of southern Lombardy, south-east of Milan and on the left bank of the Po river, between the Adda and Oglio rivers. The land has a rich soil, which has long made the location a first-class agricultural centre.
Compared to other Lombardy cities, at first glance Cremona seems to be less rich in works of art but this is deceptive and a more thorough look at Cremona reveals the presence of many art treasures and an incredible culture.
Start your visit to Cremona in Piazza del Comune, the centre of the city. Look at the Clock Tower known as the Torrazzo as well as the monumental form of the Tower be sure to admire the clock, which is an incomparable work of art. It dates from 16th century and marks not only the hours, but the days, constellations, moon phases and even the eclipses. See also the 14th century platform with its three arches and adorned with statues by Gano from.
Cremona Cathedral
The cathedral is the most important structure on the Piazza. Before entering note the facade of the Cathedral and its artistic doorway the Portico of the Bertazzola - started by Lorenzo Trotti in 1439 and originally made from wood.
Entering the Cathedral, we are greeted by the powerful art of the Renaisaance. Several artists of considerable merit contributed to the decor, but before admiring the artworks look at the architectural appearance of the cathedral - erected in the 12th century on the site of an earlier basilica there are three aisles divided by round pillars with various archs and ogival vaults. The romanesque sculptures near the main cathedral door are those of the Prophets
The Cathedral was beautifully frescoed between the 15th and 17th century. Jesus in front of Caiaphas, the fresco below the womens gallery, is of Venetian style and by the painter Girolamo Romanino. In the same Venetian style (inspired by Giorgione), is the Crucifixion by Giovanni Antonio da Pordenone. Other beautiful frescoes within Cremona cathedral include those by painter Gian Francesco Bembo with the Adoration of the Magi and the Mary Nativity by Boccaccio Boccaccino (much influenced by Albrecht Dürer). Also very beautiful are some frescoes by Altobello Meloni, including the Escape to Egypt.
Cremona tour continued
Back outside, and opposite the Cathedral is the 13th century Palace of the Municipality, once the headquarters of the Ghibelline Podestà, and extensively renovated in subsequent centuries. Leaving Piazza del Comune you can visit the nearby Piazza Roma, more recent and very different in character to Piazza del Comune with its numerous shops and very elegant buildings.
Cremona Palaces and the Civic Museum
It is the many palaces that are the highlight of a visit to Cremona. Among the most important are the Renaissance Fodri Palace, rich in sculptures and with a garden; the Stanga Palace, built in the 18th century, of baroque style; the 15th century Raimondi-Belloni Palace; the Cavalcabò Palace; and the Affaitati Palace, built in 1561 by Giuseppe, with its magnificent grand staircase added later.
Affaitati Palace is also home to the Civic Museum, which contains, in addition to many Roman artefacts, a violin by the famous Antonio Stradivari which still maintains its original varnish. There are artworks by many major painters to be seen, such as Bonifacio Bembo, Camillo Boccaccino, Galeazzo and Giulio Campi and other members of the family Campi (all were painters), and many others
Cremona Churches
The Churches of the city are also exceptional works of art. See the Church of San Luca, with the façade of the 15th; the 11th century Church of San Michele; the 14th century Church of St. Augustine; the 13th century Church of San Vincenzo; and the 12th century Church of San Sigismondo - historically an exceptional and magnificent cathedral in the Romanesque style.
Cremona cuisine
A pause to taste some typical products of the area is of course an obligation for the tourist, as well as a pleasure. For some of the local specialities the history of the local cuisine of Cremona is intermingled with the political history of the city: the famous Torrone (a kind of nougat) is said to have been born in 1441 at the wedding of Bianca Maria Visconti and Francesco Sforza. The Italian name "Torrone" was given to the sweet because its shape is like that of the Tower of Cremona.
Among the typical local starter dishes try Tortelli, born of the peasant tradition, and stuffed with flour, macaroons, raisins, nutmeg and grated cheese; and also the local variety of risotto. Among main courses, the local specialities are based around goose, duck and pork.
While visiting Cremona be sure to Provolone cheese, just one of several cheeses local to the region.
Cremona a musical tradition
Cremona is known around the world for its association with Stradivarius, the violin maker (the violin was invented in Cremona) and also for its other famous musical son, Montiverdi, the composer. This musical tradition is carried on with frequent concerts in Cremona - try to attend if there is one on during your visit.
Related article: see the history of Cremona for how the city developed.