Shopping, street markets, Christmas lights, events

Two towns, two UNESCO heritage sites. Tips for a weekend between Mantua and Cremona

By the end of the 18th century, the old Porta Cremona, the city gate built in the Middle Ages, was no longer suitable for the new traffic needs, and moreover, time and neglect had rendered it unsafe; as a result, it was decided to demolish it and build a new one. The design of the arch was drawn by the municipal engineer Antonio Dossena, decorated with four columns of Doric order, with capitals supporting the architrave with a frieze and the two emblems of the city at the sides. The construction lasted four months and was completed on 10 June 1762. It was called 'Porta Roma' for a few decades after 1870 in honour of the new capital of Italy. This is the only neoclassical gate still standing in Lodi; the other two, “Porta d'Adda” and “Porta Nuova or Milano”, were destroyed in the early 20th century.

The large black poplars around the Museo della Civiltà Contadina (Museum of Rural Civilisation) are the perfect arboreal representatives of the Po Valley.

Terraced vineyards, mountain bike trails and characteristic eateries. And a lake that you can by steamer, taking your bike with you

Cremona, the ideal background for the craziest days of the year.

Pre-view of the exhibited art-works

Minerals and animal species from different eras, temporary exhibitions, and a library for children: a museum to be discovered.

Press-conference at Savini in Milan