Cellatica

Nestled among the hills, Cellatica boasts an ancient and noble character, accompanied by a distinctive aroma: that of the red wine that bears its name. According to tradition, the town’s name derives from the Latin cella, meaning a monastic wine cellar. And indeed, it is here that the DOC red wine, for which the area is so renowned, finds its roots.

WHAT TO SEE

Sanctuary of Madonna della Stella – Perched in a stunning location 400 metres above sea level, the sanctuary offers panoramic views over Franciacorta and, on clear days, as far as Monte Rosa. Built in the Baroque style, its interior is home to significant and valuable works of art, including Romanino’s Madonna and Child. A popular destination for Sunday outings and spiritual retreats, it can be reached on foot via the path “delle Croci”, starting from Via Stella. Refreshments are available on site.
Parisch Church of San Giorgio – The church was built at the beginning of the 17th century thanks to the economic efforts of the community. The most important work is the altarpiece of the high altar by Francesco Paglia, dated 1663 and dedicated to the Triumph of Saint George Defeating the Dragon. In the background you can see the landscape of Cellatica and its hills, one of which is crowned by the Sanctuary of Madonna della Stella.
Church of San Rocco – Situated in an elevated position on a hill rich in vegetation that gave it its name, the church stands out with its red bell tower, a distinctive element of this pleasant landscape, and is easily reachable on foot with a short walk.
Historic mansions – Cellatica preserves a refined heritage of historic villas and palaces, evidence of when the village was one of the favourite destinations of noble families from Brescia and the surrounding area. Many of these homes are still privately owned, but they remain wonderful examples of stately architecture, to be admired while strolling through the town’s streets: Palazzo Covi, Palazzo Trebeschi Maggi, Palazzo Folonari formerly Sala, Villa Breda, and Palazzo Pulusella.

HIGHLIGHTS

Casa Museo Paolo e Carolina Zani – “I collected to express my taste, to satisfy my curiosity, and to experience beauty through art.” These are the words of the beloved entrepreneur and fine collector Paolo Zani, which sum up all the beauty and value of the works of art jealously preserved inside the house museum. In addition to the permanent collection, you can admire refined temporary exhibitions, enjoy creative workshops for families, and participatein interesting meetings and cultural events. The visit, by reservation, is always guided and includes access to the enchanting garden and the cozy café.

WALKS AND EXCURSIONS

Brescia Hills Park – The park encompasses a vast hilly area on the outskirts of the city of Brescia, with altitudes ranging from 190 to 960 meters above sea level. Eight well-marked trails allow visitors to explore this place of extraordinary landscape and naturalistic value, as well as to reach sites rich in history and spirituality, such as the Church of San Rocco or the Sanctuary of Madonna della Stella.
La Via delle Sorelle – Cellatica is part of the first stage of La Via delle Sorelle, a 130-kilometre way connecting the cities of Brescia and Bergamo, celebrated as Italian Capital of Culture in 2023. This stage, approximately 21 kilometres long and with a 700-metre elevation gain uphill, starts from the central Capitoline Temple in Brescia and ends near the Parish Church of Gussago.
Cultural Cycle Route Bergamo – Brescia – The cycle path, like the way, was created in 2023 to connect the two sister cities. In Cellatica, you can bike to visit the Church of Madonna della Brina, the Church of San Rocco, the Church of the Holy Family and Cascina Torricella.

FUN FACT

Pigeons as a source of income and an important means of communication. Wandering on foot or by bicycle through the countryside, you will notice several dovecotes among the palaces and villas, a typical element of historic rural architecture. Pigeons, in fact, were not only a source of income, but also a means of communication. For this reason, there are approximately 150 richly decorated towers that dot the landscape of Franciacorta.

INFO SHOPPING

The weekly market takes place every Friday from 07:00 to 13:00.

HOW TO GET THERE

By bus – Cellatica is served by the company Brescia Mobilità (line 13), which connects the town with Brescia and Gussago. The stops are Via Caporalino 13 and newsagent, Via Risorgimento 14, Via Attico, Cimitero, Via Bertulli 12, Via Fantasina 8 and 74. Info and timetables: Brescia Mobilità

WINERY VISITS AND TASTINGS

On the borders of Franciacorta, Cellatica offers the opportunity to visit a couple of smaller wineries and a historically unique business for the area, which has brought together small landowners in a cooperative since 1952.