The Imperial Walk is a short walk through the centre of Trento, following the historical route of the Prince Bishops’ progress from their Cathedral to the Castle. The walk begins at Piazza Duomo – Trento’s large Cathedral Square, referred to as the city’s living room – a harmonious and refined urban space, with the Fountain of Neptune, the Palazzo Pretorio, frescoed house facades and the Cathedral dedicated to St. Vigilius, the patron saint of the city, the most representative setting of the Council of Trent. Continue along Via Belenzani, which is a truly striking Imperial street: wide and colourful, with many imposing town mansions and the characteristic tower houses. Turn right into Via Manci, which also features a number of historic town mansions, full of art and legend, such as the Palazzo Galasso, also known as the “Devil’s Mansion”. At the next junction, one of the most busy of the Medieval city, turn left onto Via del Suffragio, with its characteristic arcades and the historic houses of what used to be known as the “German Quarter”. After a while you arrive at the Medieval Green Tower, so named because of its large Gothic dome, built in the 15th century as part of the Adige river port defences, along the old course of the river, before its diversion in Modern times. Turn right for the last stretch onto Via Clesio, flanking the bastions of the Castello del Buonconsiglio, the imposing yet elegant symbol of the secular power of the Prince Bishops, who made it their residence from 1255 to 1803. The castle complex is a treasure trove of history and art, culminating in the lively and celebrated “Cycle of the Months” fresco, a masterpiece of International Gothic painting in the Eagle Tower. Currently housing a number of prestigious museums and exhibitions, the Castle is the arrival point of this very historic and symbolic walk, between the two centres of spiritual and temporal power. 

Discover all the urban trekking itineraries in Trento and surroundings.