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Discover Brescia’s secret past with this 1.5-hour guided walk exploring the hidden history of prostitution from Roman times to the 20th century.

This 1.5-hour guided walk offers a fascinating glimpse into Brescia’s lesser-known history: the story of prostitution from ancient Rome to the 20th century. Led by certified guides with over 10 years of experience, this tour takes you through the Carmine district, revealing hidden alleys, forgotten brothels, and the lives of women who shaped this secretive world.
The experience is suitable for families and all ages, with a focus on making history engaging and informative. While the tour is quite accessible, it offers a deep dive into social and cultural aspects of Brescia’s past, making it perfect for those interested in urban history, social issues, or Brescia’s unique character. It’s a thought-provoking journey, with a manageable pace and punchy stops at notable locations.
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Planning more time in Brescia? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

The tour begins at Piazza della Loggia, a central and easily recognizable meeting point marked by the statue Bella Italia. From there, the guide leads you into the Carmine neighborhood, once known for its vibrant nightlife. This area hides narrow alleys, quiet squares, and historic buildings that once hosted prostitution venues. As you walk, the guide shares stories and anecdotes about regulations, emarginated women, and social dynamics that shaped this part of Brescia.
You’ll learn about ancient houses that once served as brothels, along with forgotten regulations that governed the trade. The tour emphasizes a human perspective, revealing the personal stories of women caught between poverty and power, as well as the social attitudes that influenced their lives. This makes the experience both educational and emotionally engaging.
The itinerary includes stops at Piazza Loggia, Via Gasparo da Salò, Corso Mameli, Pallata, Contrada San Giovanni, and Via San Faustino. Each location offers visual cues of Brescia’s hidden past. For example, Via Gasparo da Salò and Corso Mameli are streets where old buildings and hidden doorways hint at once-secret spaces. The quiet squares and discreet alleys serve as reminders of Brescia’s discreet past.
The tour’s route is designed for easy walking, with the entire path being free of architectural barriers, ensuring accessibility for everyone. The guide provides context for each stop, illustrating regulations that once shaped the urban landscape and social life.
This walk emphasizes social and personal stories behind Brescia’s hidden venues. The guide discusses names and faces of women, their emargination, and how regulations impacted their lives and work. The tour includes documents from the era and curious anecdotes that humanize this little-known aspect of Brescia’s history.
You’ll find that this journey makes a complex social issue understandable, shedding light on social norms, moral attitudes, and economic realities that influenced women’s roles in Brescia’s urban fabric. It’s a unique perspective that often remains hidden behind the city’s surface.
More Great Tours NearbyThe meeting point is Sotto statua Bella Italia in Piazza della Loggia, with precise coordinates provided for easy navigation. The tour lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes, and punctuality is encouraged to make the most of the experience.
All guides are licensed professionals, with over a decade of experience organizing guided walks in Italy. The tour starts promptly, so arriving 10 minutes early is recommended. The route is designed to be accessible, making it suitable for people with mobility challenges.
Booking is straightforward with options to reserve now and pay later. This provides flexibility for travel plans. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving peace of mind in case of schedule changes.
The tour is offered in Italian, with live guides providing a dynamic and engaging narration. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a well-organized, informative, and accessible experience of Brescia’s lesser-known history.
This tour pairs well with other guided walks and museum visits in Brescia, such as the Museo Diocesano, or day trips to nearby Lake Iseo. Other options include Brescia private guided tours with similar themes of history and culture or wines at local establishments.
This 1.5-hour walk unearths a fascinating side of Brescia that is rarely explored. Its focused route through hidden alleys and forgotten venues makes it ideal for history lovers and those curious about social issues. The knowledgeable guides ensure that the stories are both accurate and engaging.
While it covers a specific niche—the history of prostitution—the tour offers broader insights into urban development and social attitudes that shape Brescia’s character. It’s a thought-provoking journey that adds depth to the understanding of this historic city.
If you’re interested in Brescia’s shadowed past and want a guided experience led by experienced professionals, this walk is a valuable choice. It balances educational content with respectful storytelling, making it a compelling addition to your Brescia itinerary.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the route is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, especially since it educates through engaging stories.
What is the tour’s language?
The tour is conducted in Italian, with guides providing live narration.
Can I cancel my booking?
Cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as the tour involves walking through narrow alleys. The route is accessible for those with mobility challenges.
Where exactly do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is Sotto statua Bella Italia in Piazza della Loggia. Exact coordinates are provided for easy access.