Piazza Duomo is the hub of Trento, while the town of Trento is the hub of the Trentino region. As the word “Duomo” (Cathedral) suggests, the square’s greatest landmark is the vast cathedral that is impossible to miss. Spend a morning or afternoon in this lovely part of the town, however, and see many other wonderful sites beyond this religious structure.
A settlement has stood here for more than 1,000 years. Piazza Duomo has been at its heart since the Middle Ages. Get a sense of the area’s long history by visiting the cathedral. The construction of this building began in 1212. Its gorgeous Romanesque-Gothic features remain carefully preserved hundreds of years later.
Another impressive historic building nearly as old is the Palazzo Pretorio, which dates from 1220. This lovely piece of architecture features a distinctive tower and was once the home of Trento’s bishop-princes. Step inside today and find the Diocesan Museum of Trento in place of royal living quarters. The museum holds many historic works of art as well as pieces of the 6th-century church that once stood on the site of the cathedral.
Take some time to observe the wonderful Cazuffi-Rella houses, two 16th-century buildings adorned with beautifully detailed frescoes. These works of art are said to have been created by famed Italian painter Marcello Fogolini.
Capture plenty of photos of the Neptune Fountain, the magnificent centerpiece of the square. The original fountain was built in the 18th century, but the one on display today is actually a perfect replica, created in 1945. It retains all the detail of the first fountain, including the crowning statue of Neptune himself.
Find Piazza Duomo in Trento’s historic center. The town is small enough to explore on foot and the square is impossible to miss. Come on a Thursday to see the square at its liveliest, when sellers set up stalls for the weekly market.
