A historic stop in Città Alta
La Marianna is one of the most enjoyable stops to note down during a stay in Bergamo, especially if you are visiting Città Alta, the historic Upper Town. It is in the Colle Aperto area, a convenient and atmospheric spot from which to set off for a stroll along the walls, the historic streets and the most beautiful views of the city.
La Marianna is not just a gelateria: it is one of the symbolic places of Bergamo’s confectionery tradition.
Why it is famous
The reason La Marianna is so well known comes down to a special story: it was here, in 1961, that Enrico Panattoni invented stracciatella gelato.
The idea came from combining a creamy gelato base with hot chocolate poured in during the churning. On contact with the cold, the chocolate broke into small, irregular fragments, creating the crunchy yet creamy texture we all know today.
Hence the name “stracciatella”, also inspired by the famous Roman soup in which egg is “shredded” (stracciato) into the broth.
A small piece of Bergamo’s history
Today stracciatella is one of the best-loved and best-known gelato flavours in Italy, but tasting it in the very place where it was born makes the experience more authentic.
It is not just a sweet break: it is a small piece of Bergamo’s history, perfect for anyone who loves discovering the typical flavours of the places they visit.
“Tasting stracciatella at La Marianna means trying a flavour born right here in Bergamo, in the place where it was created.”
When to go
La Marianna is ideal for a special afternoon treat, for a gelato after a walk in Città Alta or for a relaxed stop before heading down towards the centre.
It is a destination for couples, families and anyone who wants to add a simple but authentic break to their itinerary.
A tip for Vittoria 36 guests
For guests of Vittoria 36, our advice is to visit Città Alta unhurriedly, pass through Piazza Vecchia and then continue towards Colle Aperto to stop at La Marianna. It is a perfect way to end your walk with something truly Bergamasque.
Not to be missed
If it is your first time at La Marianna, the flavour to try is definitely stracciatella. It is the simplest and most authentic way to experience a small piece of the city’s history.
Vittoria 36 MF Bergamo
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