Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
TRENTINO
TOP OF CHAPTER
Trento
POP 117,300 / ELEV 194M
Trento rarely makes the news these days, but that wasn't the case in the mid-16th century.
During the tumultuous years of the Counter-Reformation, the Council of Trent convened
here, dishing out far-reaching condemnations to uppity Protestants. Modern Trento is far
from preachy; instead it's quietly confident, liberal and easy to like. Bicycles glide along
spotless streets fanning out from the atmospheric, intimate Piazza del Duomo, students
clink spritzes by Renaissance fountains and a dozen historical eras intermingle seamlessly
amid stone castles, shady porticoes and the city's signature medieval frescoes. While
there's no doubt you're in Italy, Trento does have its share of Austrian influence: apple
strudel is ubiquitous and beer halls not uncommon. Set in a wide glacial valley guarded by
the crenulated peaks of the Brenta Dolomites, amid a patchwork of vineyards and apple
orchards, Trento is a perfect jumping-off point for hiking, skiing or wine tasting. And road
cycling is huge: 400km of paved cycling paths fan out from here.
