The Centro Storico is the historic center of an Italian city. This is where you want to spend a lot of time. In larger cities or towns there may be a center, the main shopping area that is usually more modern, and the old historical center, where you will find the places of interest.
Drivers beware
Much of a historic center is often a pedestrian zone or limited traffic zone and only cars with special permits can drive there. When you are near the center, look carefully for signs that designate a ZTL (limited traffic zone or limited traffic zone), restricted entry during the indicated hours or a pedestrian zone (photograph of a person walking). Parking is often limited or restricted in the historic center as well, even when you can enter with your car. Find a parking lot near the historic center and walk from there.
Many railway stations are located on the edge of the Centro Storico or within walking distance. There will likely be signs from the train station or if it is not very close there will be a connecting bus that leaves from near the station.
What’s in the Centro Storico?
Most of the buildings in a Centro Storico will be from the late medieval or Renaissance period, but may be interspersed with fragments of Roman architecture (as in Rome) or even massive Etruscan walls (as in Perugia). The Centro Storico can be completely bound by ancient walls that still exist today, as in Lucca.
The cathedral or duomo are often located in the historic center or just on its edge. Usually there is a large plaza, or plaza, in front of the cathedral that may have a fountain or statues. The town hall is also often located in the historic center, especially if it is in an old building, and it may also have a large square in front. One of these squares is probably the main square. Usually there will be a bar or cafe in the main square and often a few shops or a restaurant as well.
There will be other churches and small squares in the center, monumental mansions and usually some museums. Sometimes a castle can be in or near the historic center as well. Many cities have an indoor or outdoor market in the center. Outdoor summer music concerts and festivals are often held in the historic center as well.
The historic center is a good place to spend a little time wandering around, looking at the old architecture. Visiting the historic center is one of the best free activities in Italy.
