Guidebooks Mantova

The Lombard province of Mantova, which develops over a varied territory gathering gentle hills and large plains, has attracted large numbers of tourists for many years, since it offers them the possibility to stay at modern and well-equipped accommodation facilities while enjoying an inestimable natural, artistic and cultural heritage.

The villages of the hinterland, which were once ruled by Matilde di Canossa, are dotted with plenty of charming Romanesque churches, aristocratic palaces, elegant courts and sumptuous stately homes which bear witness to the power the Gonzaga Family achieved during that age, when it turned Mantova and other nearby cities into some of the most important artistic centres of the Italian Renaissance.

Ambitious projects, such as the building of the monumental Ducal Palace and of the whole urban core of Sabbioneta, the Renaissance's ideal city, were carried out by the most representative exponents of Italian culture and art.

The lovers of nature won't miss the opportunity to visit outstanding landscapes, such as Boschina Island, situated just in the heart of the lower Po, or to enjoy the breathtaking views offered by the impressive River Mincio Natural Park, one of the most fascinating wetlands in Italy which offers visitors the possibility to take part in exciting excursions by motorship across the valleys of the river Mincio, go cycling or walking amidst the sweet hills and castles of the park and experience birdwatching amongst the lush surrounding vegetation.