The origins of Antonio Stradivari are unknown, perhaps he was born in Cremona around 1644. He was almost certainly an apprentice of Nicolò Amati. He soon became famous for his instruments, the best of which built between 1710 and 1720. Antonio Stradivari continued to work until the last days of his life and died very old, in December 18, 1737 in Cremona. He was buried in the family tomb that was in the Basilica of San Domenico. In 1869 the church and the adjoining monastery were demolished. In their place, today are the public gardens of Piazza Roma, where you can find a copy of the simple tombstone; Stradivari bought the tomb for himself and his family in 1729. The original plaque is now exhibited at the Museo del Violino of Cremona.

Ph. Salvo Liuzzi Photo