The nineteenth-century salon of the city
In the heart of Sondrio, Piazza Garibaldi opens up like an elegant outdoor salon. Spacious, bright, and perfectly harmonious, this square is the symbol of the urban transformation that the city experienced in the nineteenth century, thanks to the intervention of the Austrian government.
Until the early decades of the 19th century, there were gardens and orchards here. Then the idea: to create a new city center.
This led to the birth of "Piazza Nuova," initially dedicated to Emperor Francis I of Austria.
The name changed only in 1909, with the installation of the majestic statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi, created by the sculptor Francesco Confalonieri. A symbolic gesture marking the transition to a new political and cultural identity.
A dive into historical architecture
Strolling under the porticos and along the elegant sidewalks, each building tells a piece of history:
- Teatro Sociale (1824), designed by Luigi Canonica, a splendid example of neoclassical architecture.
- Casa Lambertenghi (1826), a residence of great significance for the time.
- The historic headquarters of Banca d'Italia (1840), signed by Giacomo Poncini.
- Grand Hotel della Posta (1855), a favorite destination for illustrious travelers.
- Banca Popolare di Sondrio (1882), still today one of the economic pillars of the area.
- Palazzo Martinengo, which with its monument to the Riconoscenza from 1839 preserves the memory of Ferdinand I of Austria.
The statue of Garibaldi: a symbol of freedom
Impossible not to notice it: standing 3.60 meters high, the statue of Giuseppe Garibaldi towers in the center of the square.
It is the meeting point for those who arrange appointments, the reference point for events and manifestations.
Today as yesterday: a square that lives
Historic cafés, shops, typical markets, and cultural events animate Piazza Garibaldi throughout the year.
Here, one can still breathe the nineteenth-century atmosphere, yet alive and contemporary, perfect for a relaxing break or as a starting point to explore the historic center of Sondrio.
How to reach Piazza Garibaldi
- On foot: very easy to reach in just a few minutes from every corner of the historic center.
- By car: parking available near the Mallero stream and under the square itself.
- By train: from Sondrio train station, it takes about 10 minutes on foot.
Useful information
- Location: Piazza Garibaldi, Sondrio (SO)
- Access: free
- Recommended period: all year round
