Piazza Paolo VI has been an important meeting place in Brescia since the Middle Ages, both in religious and civic contexts. Formerly named Piazza de Duomo for the two cathedrals that flank its eastern side, the square has been a long-held symbol of the city’s religious tradition. Learn about Brescia’s civic history when you explore the oldest municipal building in the city, which now houses the offices of the council and province.
Some of the city’s most monumental architecture extends along the eastern side of Piazza Paolo VI. To the southeast, you’ll find the Duomo Vecchio (Old Cathedral), also known as the Rotonda. This circular-shaped stone structure dates back to the 11th century. Enter the historic building to discover its collection of artworks. Next door is the Duomo Nuovo (New Cathedral). Note its various architecture styles, reflecting its long period of construction between 1604 and 1825. Check out the Baroque beauty of its lower level and the rococo styling of its white Botticino marble façade.
Go to the square’s northeastern corner to visit the Palace of Broletto. This grand building was the former political center when Brescia had city-state status. The palace complex grew between the Middle Ages and the 17th century as the city transformed. Today, the palace holds the local government offices and the police station.
Continue strolling around the square or admire its architectural highlights from a café, restaurant or bar. Check out a neoclassical palace and a former bank headquarters built in the early 20th century. Wander along the medieval arcade of the House of Camerlenghi to reach the edge of the city’s old Roman walls.
Piazza Paolo VI is in Brescia’s Centro Storico (Old Town). It is a 5-minute walk from a subway station and is also accessible via bus. Park your car outside of the historic center and explore the district on foot to get a closer look at its remarkable architecture. Piazza Paolo VI is free to visit any time of the day.