Clusone
Clusone
Latest page update: 2 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The town of Clusone is situated within the Province of Bergamo in Lombardy and has a population of around 8,500 inhabitants. It stands at an elevation of 647 metres above sea level.
The most famous sights in the pretty town centre include the Fanzago Planetary Clock (Orologio Planetario Fanzago) and the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. |
What People Ask About Clusone
Where is Clusone located?
Clusone is located in Lombardy, in the province of Bergamo. It sits in the upper Val Seriana, about 35 km northeast of Bergamo city, in the foothills of the Orobic Alps.
What is Clusone known for?
Clusone is known for its historic centre and the Oratorio dei Disciplini, which features a 15th-century fresco of the *Triumph of Death*. It’s also popular for its alpine setting and as a base for hiking and winter sports in the surrounding mountains.
Is Clusone worth visiting?
Yes, Clusone is worth visiting for its artistic heritage, architecture, and location in the Bergamo Alps. It offers a good mix of cultural interest and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for both day trips and longer stays.
What can you see in Clusone?
Main sights include the frescoes of the Oratorio dei Disciplini, the Basilica of Santa Maria Assunta, and the medieval clock tower in Piazza dell’Orologio. The town also has museums and is close to natural parks and alpine trails.
How do you get to Clusone?
Clusone is best reached by car from Bergamo, taking just under an hour via the SP35 and SP671 roads. Public buses also connect Clusone with Bergamo’s train station. The nearest major airport is Orio al Serio (Bergamo Airport), about 45 km away.
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Award-winning historic town
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione or Orange Flag by Touring Club Italia, Clusone is one of the most attractive medieval towns in northern Italy. It dates back some 3,500 years but owes most of its sights to the medieval period.
The once walled city is characterised by its narrow, sometimes cobbled streets with a new delight around each corner. The centrepiece of the whole town is the Piazza dell'Orologio, named after the planetary clock that occupies a wall on the main building.
The Fanzago Planetary Clock was originally built in 1583 and measures 3 and a half metres in diameter. It stands astride the wall of a beautiful palazzo which is decorated in frescoes and has a ground level of porticoes.
The once walled city is characterised by its narrow, sometimes cobbled streets with a new delight around each corner. The centrepiece of the whole town is the Piazza dell'Orologio, named after the planetary clock that occupies a wall on the main building.
The Fanzago Planetary Clock was originally built in 1583 and measures 3 and a half metres in diameter. It stands astride the wall of a beautiful palazzo which is decorated in frescoes and has a ground level of porticoes.
Exploring the sights
Piazza dell'Orologio is a great place to stop for a bite to eat but there's still another significant area of interest in the town. A short walk away from the Piazza and up some steps eventually leads to the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. Impressive on the outside with its archways, terraces and grand staircases, its interior is an equally decorative affair.
Within the same complex as the Basilica is the adjacent Oratorio dei Disciplini with its famous 15th century fresco called the Triumph of Death. The Basilica complex is finished off with a small museum of church art and artefacts.
Clusone doesn't have its own train station and the best way to visit is by car. It's a 45 minute drive north east of Bergamo and situated in an area blessed with many sights. A similar medieval town called Gromo is directly to its north while everything to its west is dominated by the Parco delle Orobie Bergamasche. That offers a spectacular driving route with small villages such as Oltre Il Colle and Dossena useful waypoints en route to San Pellegrino Terme and San Giovanni Bianco.
Within the same complex as the Basilica is the adjacent Oratorio dei Disciplini with its famous 15th century fresco called the Triumph of Death. The Basilica complex is finished off with a small museum of church art and artefacts.
Clusone doesn't have its own train station and the best way to visit is by car. It's a 45 minute drive north east of Bergamo and situated in an area blessed with many sights. A similar medieval town called Gromo is directly to its north while everything to its west is dominated by the Parco delle Orobie Bergamasche. That offers a spectacular driving route with small villages such as Oltre Il Colle and Dossena useful waypoints en route to San Pellegrino Terme and San Giovanni Bianco.
Comune di Clusone
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Since: 2008
1 of 11 in Lombardy listed by Touring Club Italiano
Since: 2008
1 of 11 in Lombardy listed by Touring Club Italiano
My recommended accommodation in Clusone:
- Hotel San Martino Located in the heart of Clusone, this charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the surrounding mountains, a restaurant serving traditional Lombard cuisine, and a bar. Guests appreciate the central location, the welcoming atmosphere, and the proximity to Clusone's historical sites, including the famous Oratory of the Disciplini. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Il Ghiro Situated just outside the town centre, this cozy bed and breakfast features modern rooms, a lovely garden, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. Visitors enjoy the peaceful setting, the personal touch of the hosts, and the easy access to Clusone’s medieval streets and local attractions. €€ (mid-range)
- Agriturismo Ca' del Lago Set in the scenic countryside near Clusone, this agriturismo offers spacious rooms with panoramic views, a large garden, and a restaurant serving locally sourced produce. Guests value the rural setting, the authentic Lombard experience, and the short drive to Clusone’s town centre and historical landmarks. €€ (mid-range)
- Hotel Conca Verde Located a short distance from Clusone, this well-regarded hotel offers comfortable rooms, a wellness centre, and a restaurant with local specialties. Guests enjoy the relaxing atmosphere, the friendly service, and the proximity to nature trails and the historical sites of Clusone. €€ (mid-range)
- B&B Il Faggio Set in a peaceful location near Clusone, this charming bed and breakfast features comfortable rooms, a cozy common area, and a delicious homemade breakfast. Guests appreciate the quiet environment, the warm hospitality from the hosts, and the easy access to Clusone's cultural sites and nearby hiking trails. €€ (mid-range)
Clusone Gallery
Lombardy Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Lombardy
1. Lake Como
2. Milan
3. Lake Garda
4. Mantua
5. Lake Maggiore
6. Cremona
7. Lake Iseo
8. Lake Lugano
9. Pavia
10. San Pellegrino Terme
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Lombardy
1. Lake Como
2. Milan
3. Lake Garda
4. Mantua
5. Lake Maggiore
6. Cremona
7. Lake Iseo
8. Lake Lugano
9. Pavia
10. San Pellegrino Terme
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Lombardy