This medieval town in Lombardy has winding cobblestone streets and the world's tallest brick bell tower. Local specialties include Robiola cheese and Crema Cremolosa dessert.
Crema sits 40 kilometers east of Milan in the Lombardy countryside. In its medieval Piazza Duomo, you'll find a Gothic cathedral with paintings by Guido Reni and a Renaissance tower with Venetian-style windows. The city's tortelli cremaschi - pasta filled with amaretti cookies and raisins - draws food lovers from across Italy. Scenes from the film "Call Me By Your Name" were shot throughout the city's narrow alleys and historic squares.
Exploring Piazza Duomo
The Gothic-Lombard cathedral, built in 1341, anchors Piazza Duomo. Step inside to see Baroque paintings by Guido Reni and Carracci. The Renaissance Town Hall displays Venetian-style windows, and underneath its portico, you can examine the original coats of arms of past city officials. The 15th-century Torrazzo gate marks the entrance to the square.
Religious Architecture
Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria della Croce, built between 1493 and 1500, located a 10-minute walk from the center. This circular sanctuary contains baroque decorations and frescoes. The Church of Santissima Trinità on Via XX Settembre dates to the 11th century, with later baroque modifications. Both churches open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Local Food Traditions
Order tortelli cremaschi at local restaurants - this unique pasta comes filled with amaretti cookies, raisins, and candied citron. Visit during the Tortellata festival on August 15th to taste multiple versions from local cooks. The cheese festival in May fills Piazza Duomo with regional varieties like Salva and Quartirolo.
Film Location Sites
Follow the path of "Call Me By Your Name" (2017) through Crema's streets. Stop at the arcade cafes in Piazza Duomo where Elio and Oliver met, walk through the narrow Vicolo Marazzi, or cycle 5 kilometers to Laghetto dei Riflessi. The Pro Loco Crema Info Point under the Town Hall arcades provides maps marking all film locations.
Getting Around
Trains run every hour on the Treviglio-Cremona railway line between Milan and Crema. Three national roads connect to surrounding cities: SS 415 to Milan and Cremona, SS 591 to Piacenza and Bergamo, and SS 235 to Brescia and Pavia. Rent bikes from shops near Piazza Duomo to explore the city. You can walk between main attractions in 15 minutes or less.
