What to see in Bassano del Grappa: historic center, typical dishes and surroundings

Bassano del Grappa, overlooking the picturesque banks of the Brenta river, emerges as a gem in the heart of the Veneto region, famous throughout the world for its prestigious distillate, grappa. Let's discover together what are the historical stages that make this center a city absolutely worth visiting.

Exploring the city of Bassano del Grappa

Piazza Libertà , in the heart of the historic center, owes its name to the various historical vicissitudes that have marked it over time. From San Giovanni to Vittorio Emanuele II, up to the current dedication to the People, the square is a concentration of history. Piazza Garibaldi, also known as Piazza della Fontana, has been the vegetable market for a long time. Both squares offer a spectacle of architecture and art, with monuments such as the Lion of San Marco and the Civic Tower.

The Town Hall and the Municipal Loggia, dating back to 1405, are the first evidence of the history of this city. The Civic Museum of Bassano del Grappa , among the oldest in the Veneto, houses a rich art gallery that ranges from the 13th to the 20th century. The section dedicated to Antonio Canova is a true treasure for art enthusiasts.

Bassano del Grappa is a city enriched by thematic museums, such as:

• The Hemingway and Great War Museum , which offers a unique perspective on American participation in the world conflict.
• The Poli Grappa Museum , with its five vast exhibition rooms, tells the story of distillation and grappa, with particular attention to the traditions of the Poli family.

The Nardini Grapperia

Grapperia Nardini, the oldest Italian distillery, is instead a journey through time and the flavors of 18th century Italy. Listed among the Historic Places of Italy , this distillery offers not only the opportunity to taste the various types of grappa, from the classic to the most innovative, but also to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the time. The tasting of Tagliatella , a typical liqueur from Bassano del Grappa, is a sensorial experience that completes the journey into local tradition.

Ponte Vecchio or Ponte degli Alpini

The Ponte Vecchio , the undisputed symbol of the city, is a structure that stands majestically on the Brenta river. Rebuilt several times due to floods, fires and the demolition that occurred during the Second World War, this architectural masterpiece is still inspired by the genius of Palladio, who dictated the original project in 1569. After the war, the National Alpini Association led its reconstruction, renaming it Ponte degli Alpini . In addition to its practical function, it offers a panoramic view which is an unmissable experience for anyone visiting the city.

The Alpine Museum of Bassano del Grappa

Located a short distance from the Ponte Vecchio, the Alpini Museum is an exciting journey into the military history of the region. Located in the basement of the "Taverna degli Alpini", the museum houses a rich collection of memorabilia dating back to the world wars and the Resistance, with a special focus on the courage of the Alpini. Among the finds, the military instruments, the papers thrown by D'Annunzio over Vienna and the touching letters and photographs of the period stand out.

Explorations and routes in the surroundings of Bassano del Grappa

In addition to the main attractions, Bassano del Grappa offers a series of suggestive routes and places. The Alta Via del Tabacco, with its walk along the Brenta, reveals the history of tobacco cultivation in the area. The Belvedere on the Ponte degli Alpini and the Sentiero del Brenta offer breathtaking views, perfect for photography lovers.

What to eat in Bassano del Grappa

Among the protagonists of the Bassano table, white asparagus , grown in specific periods of the year. These asparagus are traditionally prepared in the recipe for "ovi e pescasi alla Bassano", where they are combined with eggs, creating a unique and delicious combination of flavours. Bassano cuisine also offers a variety of second courses that satisfy the most demanding palates. The “rabbit in the pan”, the “capponi alla canevera” and the “spit-roasted goat” are just some of the meat-based delights. For fish lovers, the "Brenta trout" offer a unique tasting experience. The “toresani di Breganze” and the “tripe in broth” represent the culinary traditions rooted in the culture of the area.

To try all the local delights and live an experience that is not only food and wine but also historical in the Veneto, it is always advisable to book an apartment online in advance ; do not underestimate the possibility of using Bassano del Grappa to explore other beautiful nearby cities such as Vicenza , Padua and Venice .