The journey begins at the lower lakeside, where, in the shadow of the Torre di Sant’Alò, you’ll find the Historical Fire Brigade Gallery, an impressive exhibition dedicated to the history of the Corps. Once inside, visitors are immersed in a fascinating space that houses one of the world’s most significant collections of vintage vehicles and artifacts. From uniforms to equipment, the exhibition is enriched by films and documents illustrating key historical moments and the evolution of firefighting techniques.

A short walk from the Gallery brings you to the Bibiena Scientific Theater. Within the elegant building that hosts it lies the stunning hall designed by Antonio Galli da Bibiena between 1767 and 1769. This exquisitely decorated space is bell-shaped in layout, featuring a fixed stage topped by two overlapping corridors and a room with four tiers of boxes. Just over a year after its inauguration, a 14-year-old Mozart performed here, accompanied by his father on his first Italian tour.

Heading towards the Palazzo Ducale complex, a visit to the Palatine Basilica of Santa Barbara is highly recommended. Built by Duke Guglielmo Gonzaga in the late 16th century as a court church, it aimed to blend worship and sacredness with the beauty of the arts. Its exterior is characterized by three large arches, while the single nave with side chapels leads to the main altar, flanked by two side altars adorned with altarpieces painted by Lorenzo Costa the Younger. The ancient Antegnati pipe organ, also from the 16th century and restored in the late 1990s, still resonates on special occasions, evoking deeply moving impressions.

A short stroll leads to Piazza Virgiliana, created from an ancient bend in the river that was later filled in. At its center stands a monument dedicated to the Latin poet, surrounded by gardens that share his name. Overlooking the square is the Francesco Gonzaga Diocesan Museum, the final stop on this alternative Mantua tour. Located in the main cloister of the former Augustinian monastery of Sant’Agnese, the museum opened in 1983 and now houses one of the most precious and extensive collections of artifacts and objects from the ancient churches of the diocese. This rich and fascinating exhibition underscores the extraordinary historical value of this city.

Mantua’s excellence also shines in its gastronomy, with specialties such as pumpkin tortelli, mostarda, pike in sauce, and traditional desserts like Sbrisolona and Anello di Monaco.