Bergamo

"La Città dei Mille"

Discover Bergamo: A Hidden Treasure

Looking for a destination that blends history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes? Bergamo and its enchanting surroundings are a treasure waiting to be discovered. The heartbeat of this city is Bergamo Alta, enclosed within its impressive Venetian Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking through its cobblestone streets is a unique experience, a true journey into the Middle Ages. With a convenient funicular, you can reach the upper city in just a few minutes to admire historic squares and unforgettable panoramas.

But Bergamo is much more: the surroundings offer a wide range of opportunities, from picturesque lakes like Lake Iseo with its peaceful Monte Isola, to green valleys ideal for hiking and relaxing in nature. Not to mention the excellent gastronomic tradition, an authentic pleasure for the palate. Bergamo is the perfect destination for a weekend that combines artistic beauty and tranquility.

Embracing Diversity and Safety

The presence of Bergamo Pride since 2018 and organizations like Arcigay Bergamo Cives signals an organized and visible LGBTQ+ community capable of self-representation. This contributes to creating spaces of inclusion and mutual support, enhancing the sense of security within the community. Bergamo is part of the Re.A.Dy Network (Italian Network of Public Administrations Against Discrimination), indicating the city’s official commitment to inclusion and combating discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The Safe Space Network, promoted by Bergamo Pride, includes venues, shops, and associations that openly welcome and support the community, creating safe reference points in the city. However, as in all cities, Bergamo has experienced episodes of homophobic and transphobic attacks. These deplorable events underscore the need for ongoing activism, as highlighted in Pride’s political documents, and emphasize that discrimination is still present. Joining the ARCO Card network is essential to access these safe spaces and be part of a supportive community.

Culinary Delights of Bergamo

Bergamo’s cuisine is rich, flavorful, and deeply rooted in peasant and mountain traditions. Prepare for a truly comforting and delicious experience!

The Four Kings of First Courses

  • Casoncelli alla Bergamasca: This is the symbolic dish. It is a filled pasta (similar to a ravioli) whose peculiarity lies in its filling, which combines savory and sweet flavors: meat, Grana Padano, raisins, amaretti, and spices. Traditionally served with a rich sauce of melted butter, sage, and crispy pancetta.
  • Scarpinòcc di Parre: A variant of Casoncelli, typical of the Upper Val Seriana. They have a lighter filling, based on cheese, breadcrumbs, eggs, and spices, simply seasoned with melted butter and sage.

Unique Dishes

  • Polenta Taragna: A classic that cannot be missed. Unlike classic polenta (only corn), Taragna is prepared with a mix of cornmeal and buckwheat flour, giving it its characteristic dark color. It is enriched during cooking with abundant local cheese (like Branzi or Formai de Mut) and butter, resulting in a dense, creamy, and rich dish.
  • Oselì Scapàcc (Escaped Birds): Don’t be fooled by the name; these are not birds! They are veal rolls (or pork slices) wrapped around a slice of pancetta or salami, cooked in a pan often with butter and wine, and traditionally served with polenta.

Cheeses and Cured Meats

The province of Bergamo boasts numerous DOP cheeses. Ask for a platter to taste them all!

  • Taleggio DOP: A soft cheese with a washed rind, creamy and with a characteristic flavor.
  • Branzi and Formai de Mut: Semi-hard and tasty cheeses, often used for Polenta Taragna.
  • Strachitunt: A blue cheese (similar to Gorgonzola, but less creamy) produced in Val Taleggio.
  • Salame della Bergamasca: A classic of local charcuterie.

Sweets

  • Polenta e Osei (Sweet): The sweet version of the namesake dish is a spectacular cake. It is a sponge cake covered with yellow marzipan that simulates polenta, filled with pastry cream or butter and jam, and decorated with chocolate or marzipan “birds.”
  • Torta Donizetti: A very soft ring-shaped cake dedicated to the famous Bergamo composer Gaetano Donizetti. It is light, with the addition of candied pineapple and apricot and a hint of Maraschino or Rum.
  • Stracciatella Gelato: Although not a historical dessert, this famous flavor was invented in 1961 in a gelateria in Bergamo Alta, “La Marianna.” A taste is a must!

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a culinary enthusiast, Bergamo offers a rich tapestry of experiences. Visit this vibrant city and explore the blend of tradition and modernity it has to offer. Don’t forget to secure your ARCO Card for a truly inclusive and safe journey.

Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Bergamo, discover a sanctuary where inclusivity meets tranquility. Our gay saunas in Bergamo offer a unique blend of relaxation and connection, providing a safe haven for all. Step into a world where every encounter is an opportunity to forge genuine connections with gay partners in Bergamo. At ARCO, we don't just offer access; we invite you to join a network of monitored safe spaces, ensuring your social experiences are as secure as they are fulfilling. Remember, entry to our clubs is reserved for members, but with the ARCO Card, you hold the passport to a safeguarded social life.