Capriolo

Nestled on the banks of the Oglio River, Capriolo is a charming town on the border between the provinces of Brescia and Bergamo. For centuries, it has witnessed the clashes between Guelphs and Ghibellines, as well as the rivalries between the communities of Brescia and Bergamo, and the great powers of Milan and Venice.

WHAT TO SEE

The historic medieval village and the castle – The historic heart of Capriolo is located on the hill, a strategic observation point over the valley below. At its centre stands the medieval castle, which today houses the evocative Monastery of Santa Maria degli Angeli. Built in the 11th century, only a few of the mighty original walls of the castle remain. Strolling through the alleys of the historic centre, you can admire fortified houses surmounted by towers, picturesque stone dovecotes, elegant 15th- and 16th-century palaces, and the traditional löch: internal courtyards in a traditional style that still retain their authentic charm.
Church of Sant’Onofrio – Behind the castle stands a small 18th-century gem, the ideal destination for a moment of quiet and contemplation. Inside there is a statue dedicated to Saint Onofrio, the hermit saint to whom the church is dedicated, while the exterior offers a wonderful view of Lake Iseo.
Parish Church of San Giorgio – The current parish church dates back to the 16th century, when it was moved from the hill to the plain and built on the site of an older chapel, also dedicated to Saint George. The sober façade does not immediately suggest the rich artistic heritage housed inside. A true gem is the extraordinary “Resurrection of Christ” (1526), an altarpiece by Girolamo Romanino, one of the most important exponents of the Renaissance in the area. The church is part of the cultural itinerary “La Via del Romanino”, a route that crosses the province of Brescia to discover the powerful and restless paintings of this great artist.

HIGHLIGHTS

Ricci Curbastro Agriculture Museum – Housed in the historic cellar that gives it its name, the museum was founded in 1986 and offers a fascinating journey into the daily life of past generations of local peasants, with a special focus on viticulture. The exhibits showcase the tools and implements used for working the fields, harvesting grapes, making wine, and caring for animals. Visits are available by reservation.
Capriolo’s La Ret – La Ret is the local salami bearing the De.Co. label, made exclusively from pigs raised within 30 kilometres of Capriolo. Its distinctive flavour comes from the coarse hand-cut mincing of the meat and the carefully diced fat. La Ret takes centre stage at the annual Sagra di San Giorgio, held every April, and can also be found at local butcher shops.

WALKS AND EXCURSIONS

Via Fontane Vecchie – One of the most charming walks is along Via Fontane Vecchie, a picturesque cobbled alley that connects the lower part of the town to the Castle-Monastery. Rich in natural springs, this area was already known in ancient times for its clear and abundant water. The first public fountain was built in 1623 and for almost two centuries it was the only one available: today it is known as “Fontane Antiche” (ancient fountains), a corner full of charm and memory.
Cycle – Pedestrian Trail in the Northern Oglio Regional Park – Nature lovers can hike in the Northern Oglio Regional Park, following the course of the river. This is also home to the Oglio Cycle Route, a 280-kilometre route connecting the Camonica Valley to the Po Valley. This itinerary is perfect for people who want to cycle peacefully amidst greenery, through fields, woods, and crystal-clear water.
Hiking to Monte Alto – Those who prefer views from above can take the Monte Alto hiking trail, a circular route of about 10 kilometres. It starts near the Church of San Giorgio (on Via Urini), climbs towards the castle, continues to the Church of the Alpini and finally reaches the summit, where across is placed. From here, you can enjoy an extraordinary view of Lake Iseo, the moraine hills, Monte Orfano, and, on clear days, even the Apennines are visible.
La Via delle Sorelle – Finally, for walking enthusiasts, the third stage of La Via delle Sorelle also passes through Capriolo. This 130-kilometre way, created for Bergamo-Brescia Italian Capital of Culture 2023, connects the two cities offering a slow, sustainable, and emotion-filled journey through nature, art, and villages.

INFO SHOPPING

The weekly market takes place on Fridays from 08:30 to 12:30 in Via Vittorio Emanuele II.

HOW TO GET THERE

By bus – Capriolo is served by the ARRIVA bus company, which connects the town with Brescia and Paratico. The bus stop is on Via IV Novembre. Info and timetables: Arriva Italia

WINERY VISITS AND TASTINGS

On the edge of Franciacorta, a stop at one of the wineries located in Capriolo is a must before continuing your journey to Lake Iseo. An experience that combines the pleasure of the senses with the charm of the lakeside landscape