Piacenza is a city within the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy.
This fantastic commune is situated on the banks of the River Po and lies in-between both Milan to the west and Parma to the east. With a population of just over 100,000, it is an important city in the region and has an economy based on wine production, manufacturing, and industrial innovation. In ancient times, Piacenza was actually occupied as a Roman military colony around 200 BC. Throughout this time, the outpost saw much conflict and was sacked and rebuilt several times. During the Middle Ages, Piacenza was deeply involved in the wars of the Holy Roman Empire but it also becomes immensely rich due to fertile agricultural land.
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1. Palazzo Farnese
This large palace is one of the most impressive buildings in Piacenza and was constructed in the 14th century but was extended largely by Emperor Charles V during the 1500s.
Located on the banks of the River Po, this palatial complex has an impressive front façade and towers for over 5 floors – the building has a huge amount of windows, and in-between the rows of windows are a series of miniature ornate arches.
Within the walls of the palace, you can find an interesting archaeological museum that contains the legendary “Piacenza Liver” (A bronze liver with inscriptions). Furthermore, there is also a fantastic gallery containing works from the 16th and 17th centuries and several other museums containing ancient weapons and armor.
2. Duomo di Piacenza
The Cathedral of Piacenza is undoubtedly the most significant religious building in the city. It also stands as a fine example of Romanesque architecture and is one of the best-preserved examples in Northern Italy from the 12th century.
With an overall length of 85m, it is the longest church in the region. The front façade has a beautiful design with a large circular rose window and three ornate archways. A central bell tower looms over the church at a height of 32m.
Inside this delightful structure is a series of colorful frescos created in the 14th and 16th centuries and also several fine wooden sculptures. The domes of the church are particularly beautiful and the decoration is truly sublime.
3. Basilica di Sant Antonino
Another fine church in the historic center of Piacenza, the Basilica of Sant’Antonino is a beautiful building with many fine features. Located in the Piazza Sant’Antonino, this basilica is only a short walk from the cathedral and Palazzo Gotico.
Constructed in 1350, the church has a gothic style and features a huge open arched portico at the end of the northern arm. This huge arch frames the church beautifully and is topped with a rose window.
At the center of the church is a large hexagonal bell tower with rows of arched windows. Inside, the church has frescoes from Gavasetti and Robert de Longe - some of the works were actually moved to the Piacenza Civil Gallery.
4. Palazzo Gotico
This beautiful palace is one of the most fascinating and wonderful buildings in Piacenza and one of the symbols of the city. Created by four architects including Borghetto, this building is a fine example of the Lombard Gothic style.
The front façade of the structure is split into two halves – the bottom half has an open portico and a series of white stone arches. The top half has a contrasting red brick design and is topped with crenulations.
The portico is truly beautiful and walking through this open area and admiring the arches is an absolute must.
5. Castelli del Ducato di Parma e Piacenza
Close to the city of Parma is the small town of Fontanellato. This town can be reached from Piacenza in approximately 30 minutes on the E35 route. Within this quiet town is a selection of restaurants and cafes but also the impressive Castelli di Fontanellato.
Situated in a square moat, this castle is truly picture perfect and presents some fantastic photo opportunities. Created in the 12th century, this castle has served as an important defensive position and has been attacked numerous times.
It is possible to walk through this beautiful structure and grounds and admire the fine architecture and stunning flower arrangements around the battlements.
6. Parco della Galleana
In the south of Piacenza, on the outskirts of the city is Parco della Galleana. This is a great place to come on a sunny afternoon if you have had your fill of sightseeing. Within the grounds of this park is a series of well-preserved lawns that are perfect for playing ball games, sunbathing or having a picnic.
There is also a small river on the western side of the park that offers a beautiful place to walk along. Furthermore, in the southern section of the park, there is a large wooded area with a host of fantastic trees – walking through here in the shade provides a true escape.
This palace is also located in a beautiful square, surrounded by some other amazing architecture.
7. Parco Regionale Adda Sud
To the north of Piacenza is the beautiful parkland of Adda Sud. This park gets its name from the River Adda and it runs alongside this stretch of water for some miles.
If you love wildlife, nature, and gorgeous countryside scenery, this regional park will be your haven. White storks have been known to nest here and there are several points of interest including Borromeo Castle, The Rock of Maccastorna and the Abbey of Abbadia Cerreto.
This park is perfect for cycling and it is advisable to hire a bike in Piacenza and head out into this region to explore the many bike trails and footpaths.
8. Enjoy some freshly cooked meat at the Macelleria Callegari butchers
This is a unique establishment that is actually a butcher and a restaurant. Located in the southern part of the historic town center on the Stradone Farnese street, this eatery has a wonderful atmosphere and is a local favorite.
At the front of the butchers is a meat counter that displays a mouth-watering selection of fresh cuts of beef, pork, lamb and anything you can imagine. You can select which meat you want to try and the owners will cook it for you whilst you wait! The meat is cooked to perfection and the quality is undeniable.
9. Visit the town of Pretta
If you walk along the southern bank of the Po River, you will eventually reach the quiet Pretta village. This charming village has a population of under 200 but has some fantastic sights.
Firstly, the surrounding countryside is simply stunning and features a myriad of hiking trails alongside the River Po. You can stroll through the Parco di Rivalta and up to the expansive Ponte di Tuna.
Secondly, the village itself contains the beautiful Castello Di Rivalta. This ornate medieval castle is open for private guided tours and contains a wonderful selection of historically restored rooms and significant artifacts.
10. Take a day trip to Parma
Piacenza has a fantastic location and is situated in-between some of Italy’s most popular cities.
Approximately 30 minutes to the east of Piacenza is the delightful city of Parma – Parma is known for its Ham exports, but it also has a great deal of history, culture, and interesting attractions.
Trains run between the two cities every hour and the journey takes 24 minutes. Some of Parma's main attractions, including the beautiful Piazza del Governatore, the beautiful Duomo and the beautiful Renaissance Baptistery.
Furthermore, Parma has a handful of ornate theatres including the Royal Theatre and Teatro Farnese.
More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Pesaro
from : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-piacenza-709431.html
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