Cremona may not be as well known as other cities in Lombardia like Milan or Pavia, but it has a lot to offer to an attentive visitor. Never mind if you are into history, folklore, architecture, or food, the town has something for you. 

It was founded by the Romans in 218 BC and played a significant role during the Empire as a military and trading post. Legends say, however, that Cremona had semi-divine origins because its first stone was laid by Hercules. According to this tradition Hercules, while returning from one of his famous adventures — specifically after securing the Golden Apples of the Hesperides in Iberia — paused to rest in the rich plains along the Po River in northern Italy.