Mantova launches themed walking tours to explore city life and historic waterworks

A local cultural guide promotes the practice of wandering Mantova without a fixed itinerary, encouraging residents and visitors to experience the city's layered streets, bridges, courtyards, and hidden details beyond the major sights. The guide likens the approach to the historic French concept of flânerie, suggesting simple observation rules such as focusing on water or reading tombstones to rediscover the urban environment.

As part of the "Cammina Mantova 2026" series, an organized walk titled “Governare le acque” will take participants through Mantova and the nearby town of Gazzuolo to examine historic hydraulic works. The route includes the Idrovore di Arlotto, Idrovore di Valletta Valsecchi, and the Chiavica Gasparetti, illustrating centuries of engineering that shaped the local landscape, supported agriculture, and protected the area from flooding.