Bergamo

The Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Bergamo was completed in 1605, becoming one of the city’s most iconic architectural masterpieces. Established initially in the 12th century, the basilica underwent significant architectural transformations that blended Romanesque and Gothic styles. The ornate interior features remarkable frescoes, tapestries, and a wooden choir sculpted by Lorenzo Lotto. Santa Maria Maggiore stands today not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of Bergamo's rich artistic and cultural heritage.

The Great Plague of Bergamo occurred in the early 17th century, devastating the population of the city and its surrounding areas. Spread from Milan, the plague struck Bergamo in 1630, resulting in a catastrophic loss of life due to the virulent spread of the Yersinia pestis bacterium. Historical accounts estimate that a significant percentage of the population perished. The social and economic consequences of the plague were profound, leading to widespread disruption and hardship, deeply etching this event into the memory of the city.

In March 1797, the Cisalpine Republic, a sister republic of revolutionary France, was established with its capital initially in Milan. Bergamo, which had been under Venetian control, became part of this new republic following the invasion of Northern Italy by Napoleon Bonaparte. This marked a significant political change for Bergamo, as it transitioned from centuries of Venetian rule to the influence of French revolutionary ideas. The formation of the Cisalpine Republic set the stage for future political developments in Italy, influencing the region's path toward modernity.

In April 1849, Bergamo witnessed a significant uprising as part of the broader Risorgimento movement, which aimed to unify Italy and liberate it from foreign domination. Citizens of Bergamo took part in revolts against Austrian authority, joining forces with other Italian patriots. Although the uprising was eventually suppressed, it was an important expression of the nationalist fervor and the desire for unification that was spreading throughout the Italian peninsula. This rebellion contributed to the eventual success of the Risorgimento.

In 1859, Bergamo was liberated from Austrian control as part of the Second Italian War of Independence. The city played a strategic role during the conflicts between the Austrians and the forces seeking Italian unification. Giuseppe Garibaldi's Campaign of the Thousand and the collaboration with the Kingdom of Sardinia were crucial in freeing Bergamo from foreign rule. This event was an important step towards the unification of Italy, leading to Bergamo becoming part of the newly formed Kingdom of Italy shortly thereafter.

Atalanta B.C. was founded in 1907 in Bergamo, Italy. Originally established by a group of students, the club has grown over the decades to become one of Italy’s notable football teams. Known for its vibrant blue and black kits, the club has played in both Italy's Serie A and Serie B leagues. Atalanta B.C. has a passionate fan base and is renowned for its youth academy, which has produced numerous talented players who have excelled in the sport. The club's evolution reflects Bergamo's sporting spirit and tradition.

The Venetian Works of Defence between the 16th and 17th centuries, which include the Venetian Walls of Bergamo, were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. This recognition highlights the historical and architectural significance of these fortifications. The walls, built during the period when Bergamo was under Venetian rule, stand as a testament to the city's strategic importance and the military architecture of the time. The recognition by UNESCO has helped in preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Bergamo.

Atalanta B.C., the professional football club based in Bergamo, made history during the 2019-2020 UEFA Champions League season by reaching the quarter-finals for the first time. Despite losing their first three matches in the group stage, Atalanta advanced to the knockout rounds, showcasing remarkable perseverance and skill. Their performance captured the hearts of fans and earned them recognition as one of the competition's standout stories. Atalanta's success in the Champions League highlighted the growth of the club and its emergence as a competitive force in European football.

Bergamo became one of the hardest-hit regions in Italy during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The first confirmed case in the region was detected in late February, and the virus spread rapidly, severely affecting the population and overwhelming healthcare facilities. The high mortality rate in Bergamo during the outbreak revealed critical challenges in emergency response and healthcare systems. The situation garnered international attention and led to unprecedented lockdown measures across the region.

In January 2022, Bergamo and Brescia were jointly declared the Italian Capital of Culture for 2023. The selection recognized the endeavors of these cities to recover and rejuvenate their cultural landscapes following the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout 2023, Bergamo is set to host a series of cultural events, exhibitions, and performances to showcase its rich cultural heritage, engage local communities, and attract visitors. The honor aims to promote cultural tourism and stimulate economic growth in the region.