Bassano del Grappa, renowned as the birthplace of the namesake after dinner drink, was founded as an agricultural estate in the 2nd century BC by the Roman Bassianus. The first documented evidence for the city was in 998 AD and the first mention of a castle was in 1150. Throughout the next centuries, the city was ruled by the Visconti of Milan and then the Republic of Venice. It was during this period that the city flourished as a center for wool, silk, copper, iron and ceramic industries. Napoleon spent several months here during the French Revolutionary War Battle of Bassano. The city became part of the Kingdom of Italy in 1866. Originally called Bassano Veneto, the name was changed to include del Grappa in 1928. This was done to honor soldiers who were killed during the World War I battles that took place on nearby Mount Grappa, where Ernest Hemmingway served as an ambulance driver and was influenced to write A Farewell to Arms.
Today, tourists can explore a treasure trove of wonders from the Upper Castle to the numerous ancient churches and the well known Ponte delgi Alpini. This covered bridge is a symbol of the city. Architect Andrea Palladio designed this wooden pontoon bridge in 1569. Although destroyed several times, it was rebuilt following World War II and is revered by Italy’s Alpine soldiers or Alpini. It is here on the bridge that you will find the Nardini Distillery’s grappa shop and tavern which hasn’t changed since 1779. Visitors will be amazed by the frescos in the 12th century Roman-Gothic Church of St. Francis and on the facade of the town hall. Guests will admire the architecture of the 14th century Church of St. John the Baptist and the Duomo Cathedral that was built in the year 1000 and renovated in 1417. Patrons of the town museum will enjoy the ancient archeological artifacts on display.
Bassano is the hometown of Renzo Rosso who founded the clothing and fashion design company Diesel. This company and the thriving ceramics industry are important sources of economic prosperity for the region that has temperatures in the mid to high twenty degrees Celsius in the summer and lows around zero degrees in the winter. Precipitation is highest in late spring and early winter. Bassano del Grappa is an excellent place from which to explore the nearby Venetian era towns, castles and villas.
