The city of Trento was formally founded in the first century B.C. by the Romans, with the Latin name of "Tridentum". Trento is set on the intersection of important roads leading to Lake Garda, the Dolomites, Venice, Verona, Bolzano and Innsbruck. It is dominated by the nearby Bondone and Paganella Mountains, where the residents and tourists go skiing and hiking.
In spite of being a small city (115.000 inhabitants), Trento is still nowadays an important cross road between the Mediterranean and the Alpine areas and a place of cultural dialogue. Trento's rich artistic and historical heritage is to be found in its monuments, which embody the centuries of history written under the dual influences of northern and Italian cultures, still evident today in the variety of architectural styles. One of the most striking faces of Trento is that of the alpine Renaissance city, which has been restored to its original splendour by recent renovations. Worthwhile to visit include the Castello del Buonconsiglio, the Duomo (cathedral) and its wonderful square, the houses decorated with frescoes, the churches of the Council, the museums and exhibitions which today make Trento a city of art, culture and traditions.
Trento is able to surprise as it is a very small, versatile city, as it constantly changes features, yet always maintaining close links to tradition. Visitors can enjoy its several facets throughout the various seasons: the typical gastronomic products during the autumn, the history and local tradition, kept alive during the San Vigilio festival at the end of June, or the experience of its illuminated Christmas market in December.