Starting from Brescia, going towards Mantua and crossing Castenedolo, the road gently descends to a low embankment in beautiful countryside, until one finds, to the right, the “Osteria della Fascia d’Oro” tavern: this is where the heath of Montichiari begins and this is the place of the International Circuit.

The arid, gravelly and treeless heath of Montichiari became an ideal point of reference for the promising field of motor racing the newborn car industry was engaging in. And, since Montichiari was hosting the races on its territory, the town began to expand its economy and prestige. In September 1899, Brescia organized a four-day-event dedicated to motoring, during which a race was held.

Races continued taking place during the following years, and in 1905 the Vincenzo Florio Cup, the Conte di Salemi Cup and the Italian Cup were run, all won by G.B. Raggio with a 100 hp Itala. The finish line and the stands were placed at the Fascia D’Oro in Montichiari. The Florio Cup was also run in 1907, and was won by Minoia against Isotta Fraschini. In 1920, the organizers decided to build a permanent circuit. On the 4th September 1921, the first Italian Grand Prix was disputed. The 18-km-track (11.184 miles) was all within Montichiari’s territory.