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This is the free-standing cathedral bell tower, a 112.5-m brickwork giant built 1230-1309 that defines the city landscape. The astronomical clock on the fourth storey, 8.2 m in diameter, was installed in 1588.
Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta
Grand cathedral begun in 1107: the main facade (circa 1300) is Romanesque. The interior is richly decorated with frescoes and major works of art. The octagonal Baptistry was added in 1167. The composer Monteverdi (1567-1643) was probably a choir-boy here; he was born in Cremona but made his name in Mantova and Venice.
Wonderful exhibition of violins and their construction by Stradivarius, Amati, Guarneri and other masters. They have regular recitals.
Display of Roman and earlier findings, in a disused 14th-century church.
The main city museum, with rich artefacts and artwork. The historic violins have relocated to their own museum (above).
Farmhouse Museum
Restored farmhouse exhibiting Lombardy country life.