Parma is a city with the refined atmosphere of a small capital. It is famous for its extensive green spaces, artistic masterpieces, and treasures from various eras.
Parma and its province are rich in diverse landscapes stretching between the Po River and the Apennines, including castles, medieval churches, small villages steeped in ancient history, and theaters. Here you can enjoy horseback riding, exploring the surrounding area by bike, hiking, and visiting ancient fortresses.
Sights of Parma
Parma has a strong artistic and cultural tradition. Among the artists who lived here were Benedetto Antelami, who designed the Cathedral and Baptistery in pink marble in Verona; Correggio, who worked on the Hall of St. John the Evangelist, the Hall of St. Paul, and the Cathedral; and Parmigianino, who painted the churches of Santa Maria della Steccata and parts of the Church of San Giovanni. The National Gallery houses works by Correggio, Canova, Tiepolo, Parmigianino, and Leonardo da Vinci.
Modern architecture in Parma has its own distinctive style: the Paganini Auditorium and the Barilla Center, works by Renzo Piano, works by Botta, the Bohigas station, and the Piazzale della Pace are just a few of the most famous landmarks.
Parma is a city of music and theater. In addition to the Parma-Verdi Association, there are buildings dedicated to musical art: the Casa della Musica, the Casa-Museo Arturo Toscanini, the Paganini Auditorium, the Casa della Sound, and, of course, the Teatro dell’Opera e Drama di Reggio.
The province boasts numerous castles, preserved from the various signoria that existed in Parma during the 14th and 15th centuries: the Scaligeri, the Visconti, and, of course, the Sforza. The most popular tourist attractions are Torrechiara Castle, Bardi Castle, Fontanellato Fortress, and Reggia di Colorno.
Food and Drink
Parma is one of the gastronomic centers of Italy. The city is famous for its ham and salami, cheeses, black truffles, and wine. The local cuisine combines Italian and traditional Parma dishes: punta di vitello (stuffed veal), tortelli d’erbetta (thin pasta filled with finely chopped spinach and ricotta), parmesan tripe (braised beef with Parmesan), la vecchia (horse meat with grated cheese and potatoes), spongata (a thin pastry cake with icing), and tortel dols.
