It's a lovely little city between Lombardia and Emilia Romagna, flanked by three lakes formed by the Mincio River as it courses through the landscape. The river is only 4 kilometers away. The city is a neat network of sleepy streets marked by a distinct neo-classic atmosphere sparked by Medieval and Renaissance monuments. It was the capital of the former state of Gonzaga and the cradle of artistic heritage, political power and mercantile tradition. The lakes served to form a natural barrier against the encroachment of industry upon the city's close rapport with the earth. It is one of the most stable agricultural areas in all of Europe. The historical center of the city, the "old town", is closed to traffic and thus affords a leisurely, quiet and comprehensive examination of the many interesting sights: S. Andrea: the notable Renaissance opera house erected in 1472, so vast it houses the funereal chapel of Andrea Mantegna. Palazzo Ducale: The name is deceptive... this is actually a city within a city, complete with palazzi, churches, piazzas, courtyards and gardens, all bearing witness to the influence of the ancient Gonzaga families. Piazza Sordello: Surrounded by crenelated palazzi, the Palazzo Ducale and the Duomo, the palazzo has a rather elongated shape and is quite generous in relation to the dimensions of the centro storico itself. Palazzo Te: This grandiose suburban villa, one of the best-kept examples of 16th-century italian architecture, is a excellent repository for the city's museum collections.