The Capitolium of Brixia, located in the heart of Brescia in northern Italy, stands as one of the most impressive and well-preserved Roman archaeological sites in the country. Known also as the Capitolium Temple or the Temple of the Capitoline Triad, it represents the ancient Roman city of Brixia’s most important religious and civic monument. Nestled at the foot of Cidneo Hill, this grand structure offers visitors a remarkable journey through more than two thousand years of history, art, and architecture, reflecting the enduring influence of Roman civilization in Lombardy.

The temple was originally commissioned by Emperor Vespasian in 73 AD, following his victory in the civil wars that brought stability to the Roman Empire. It was dedicated to the Capitoline Triad—Jupiter, Juno, and Minerva—deities that symbolized the strength and unity of Rome. Constructed on the remains of an earlier Republican sanctuary, the Capitolium formed the centrepiece of the Roman forum of Brixia, a bustling area surrounded by public buildings, porticoes, and marketplaces. Its marble columns, elegant stairways, and richly decorated altars once expressed the city’s loyalty to Rome and its prosperity as a key centre in northern Italy.

Over the centuries, the temple suffered destruction and neglect. It was buried by a series of landslides from Cidneo Hill and forgotten for hundreds of years. However, in the early nineteenth century, the site was rediscovered and gradually excavated, revealing a treasure trove of ancient remains. Today, the reconstructed portions of the temple, including the tall Corinthian columns and the monumental staircase, evoke the grandeur of Roman architecture. Inside, visitors can admire fragments of frescoes, sculptural reliefs, and inscriptions that once adorned the sacred spaces.

Adjacent to the temple stands the Roman theatre of Brescia, one of the largest in northern Italy, further illustrating the scale and cultural vitality of ancient Brixia. Together, the Capitolium and the theatre form part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Longobards in Italy, Places of Power,” recognized for its exceptional historical and artistic value.

A visit to the Capitolium of Brixia is not only an encounter with ancient ruins but also an experience of continuity between past and present. It reveals how the layers of history shape the identity of Brescia, a city where Roman stones still stand alongside medieval towers and Renaissance palaces, forming a living testament to Italy’s timeless heritage.

The Castello di Brescia, also known as the Castle of Brescia, stands proudly on the Cidneo Hill overlooking the city, serving as both a historic landmark and a symbol of Brescia’s enduring strength. This imposing fortress, one of the largest in northern Italy, embodies centuries of history, from Roman foundations to medieval fortifications and Venetian grandeur. Its commanding position offers not only panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside but also a journey through time, where every stone and tower tells a story of power, defence, and transformation.

The origins of the castle date back to the Roman era, when a temple dedicated to Jupiter once occupied the site. Over the centuries, it evolved into a fortified stronghold, especially during the Middle Ages, when it became an essential part of Brescia’s defence system. The Visconti family, rulers of Milan in the fourteenth century, expanded and reinforced the castle, giving it much of its current structure. Later, under Venetian rule, the fortress was further strengthened and adapted to withstand the changing techniques of warfare. Each period left its distinct architectural imprint, creating a fascinating blend of styles that reflect Brescia’s complex political and cultural past.

Entering through the monumental gateway, visitors are greeted by massive stone walls, drawbridges, and winding paths that lead up to the heart of the fortress. Within its vast grounds, the castle houses several remarkable attractions. The Luigi Marzoli Arms Museum displays one of Europe’s finest collections of ancient weapons and armour, offering insight into the art of war and craftsmanship of past centuries. The Museum of the Risorgimento, located in one of the castle’s buildings, tells the story of Brescia’s significant role in Italy’s struggle for independence during the nineteenth century. These museums transform the castle into a vibrant centre of culture and learning, preserving its heritage while engaging visitors of all ages.

Beyond its historical and cultural treasures, the Castello di Brescia is also a place of relaxation and community. Its wide terraces and gardens provide peaceful spaces where locals and tourists gather to enjoy concerts, exhibitions, and festivals throughout the year. The sweeping view from its ramparts, stretching across the old city’s rooftops to the distant Alps, offers a breath-taking reminder of Brescia’s enduring beauty. The Castello di Brescia is more than a fortress; it is the soul of the city, a living monument that connects past and present, inviting all who visit to experience its timeless charm.