One of Italy's major art cities, Mantua is surrounded by water and marked by a prestigious history

Mantua, Lombardy

Mantova is a gem of Italian art and architecture which beautifies Lombardy as a region. Built around three lakes supplied by the Mincio river, it is the city of Virgil and the Gonzagas characterised by an overwhelming charm and aiming straight at the heart of the visitors who will never forget it.

What to see in Mantua and its surroundings

• Mantua and Sabbioneta, the pearls of the Po Valley
• Sabbioneta, a Renaissance masterpiece, and the dream of an enlightened prince
• Castle of San Giorgio
• Sunday on the Mincio cycle path
• Ducal Palace of Mantua
• Cycling around cities of art and historic villages in Lombardy

Surrounded by water and marked by a prestigious history

It is one of the most important towns in Lombardy, particularly from an artistic standpoint: Mantova is recounted among the imposing residences, museums and a perfectly preserved historical centre. Historically related to the noble Gonzaga family and universally known as the house of Virgil, this is a destination to discover.

* ENIT - Italian National Tourist Board, 140 William St, East Sydney, NSW 2011, Australia sydney@enit.it