BRESCIA: Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo Private guide

The guided tour of Brescia’s heart—Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo—is a journey through one of the most prestigious collections of Renaissance and Baroque art in Italy. Housed in the 17th-century Palazzo Martinengo da Barco, the museum showcases 21 beautifully restored historic rooms, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries of artistic evolution.

Among the most prominent artists in the collection are Vincenzo Foppa, the pioneer of Lombard Renaissance painting, and Savoldo, Romanino, and Moretto, the three master painters of the 16th century from Brescia.

These artists, inspired by their teacher’s genius, developed a unique style focused on the study of natural light, going beyond mere technique to explore how light could capture emotional and spiritual depth on canvas. Caravaggio himself turned to their methods when seeking to perfect his own style.

A highlight within the Renaissance section is Raphael’s Blessing Christ, a devotional piece where some critics believe the youthful face of Christ mirrors Raphael’s self-portrait. Another masterpiece to admire is Lorenzo Lotto’s magnificent Adoration of the Shepherds, a perfect example of the restless artist’s ability to capture human emotion in contrast to the dominant style of Tiziano.

Visitors will also find captivating works in the 18th-century Pauperist painting, where Giacomo Ceruti, known as “Pitocchetto,” presents scenes of ordinary people in the most genuine and dignified manner. Despite being born in Milan, Ceruti is fondly regarded as Brixiensis (Brescian), and his works displayed here represent the finest examples of his emotional realism. The Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo hosts the largest collection of Ceruti’s works in a public collection, allowing for a deeper appreciation of his distinctive style.

In addition to Renaissance and Baroque art, the museum offers a fascinating integration of decorative arts such as goldsmithing, enamels, ceramics, and Murano glass. These items are thoughtfully displayed alongside paintings in a chronological dialogue that enhances the understanding of each historical period. A standout is the central glass display in the Mirror Hall, showcasing Venetian blown glass from the Brozzoni collection (16th-18th century), which provides a stunning visual experience.

The Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo offers visitors an opportunity to explore a rich collection spanning six centuries, from Late Gothic to Romanticism. Each guided tour provides a unique narrative, whether exploring the great masterpieces or delving into the innovative “Third Way” of Renaissance painting developed by the Brescian masters.

Whether you are an art enthusiast or a curious traveler, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through history, beauty, and creativity.

Included:

• Private tour with licensed guide

Not included:

• Museum tickets
• Transfer service

What to bring:

• Comfortable shoes
• Water
• Sun hat on hot days

Meeting point:

• Outside Pinacoteca Tosio Martinengo ticket office