Mantua
This morning we’ll follow the north side of the Po River on tranquil country roads, to the lovely town of Mantua. Situated on the southern side of two natural lakes formed by the Mincio River, Mantua was for many years the capital of a strategically-positioned duchy, ruled by the Gonzaga family, that later included the Monferrato region to the west. The Gonzagas’ ducal palace is celebrated by scholars worldwide for its fresco, La Camera degli Sposi (“Bridal Chamber”), painted by Andrea Mantegna. After lunch, which might include Mantua’s renowned tortelli di zucca, we’ll visit Giulio Romano’s masterpiece, the Gonzaga’s Palazzo Tè, with its beautiful gardens in which we’ll take a relaxing stroll. A visit to the beautiful synagogue may also be included on request – Jews thrived here under the liberal Gonzaga.
