A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Piacenza: Discover Italy's Hidden Gem

Piacenza, a charming city located in the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy, is a must-visit destination. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, Piacenza offers a unique experience for culture and food lovers.

The Historic Center of Piacenza

The heart of Piacenza is its historic center, where you can stroll along cobblestone streets and discover beautiful Renaissance and medieval buildings. Piazza Cavalli is the perfect starting point, featuring two equestrian statues representing 16th-century military leaders Alessandro Farnese and Ranuccio I Farnese.

Another place of interest is the Palazzo Gotico, an impressive Gothic palace that houses the Civic Museum. Here, you can admire a collection of art and artifacts that tell the city's story. Don't miss Piacenza Cathedral, an architectural gem with a pink marble façade and a richly decorated interior.

Castles and Fortresses

The surroundings of Piacenza are dotted with castles and fortresses that will transport you back to medieval times. Castello di Rivalta, located a few kilometers from the city, is one of the most impressive. With its well-preserved towers and walls, it feels like stepping into a fairy tale.

Another must-visit is Castello di Grazzano Visconti. This 14th-century castle has been restored and turned into a museum, where you can explore rooms adorned with antique furniture and enjoy panoramic views from its towers.

Piacentine Gastronomy

If you're a food lover, Piacenza will delight you with its delicious cuisine. Don't leave without trying the famous salami piacentini, cured sausages seasoned with herbs and spices that are a treat for the palate.

Another regional specialty is torta fritta, a type of fried bread served hot and paired with local cured meats and cheeses. And, of course, you must sample the region's wines, such as Gutturnio and Ortrugo, which perfectly complement the local dishes.

Outdoor Activities

If you enjoy nature, Piacenza has plenty to offer. The Piacentine Apennines are ideal for hiking and taking in beautiful landscapes. You can also visit Monte Moria Natural Park, where you’ll find a wide variety of flora and fauna.

If you prefer more relaxing activities, you can take a bike ride along the Po River or enjoy a picnic in the city’s lovely gardens.

Piacenza is a tourist destination that combines history, architecture, gastronomy, and nature. Don’t miss the chance to discover this hidden gem of Italy and immerse yourself in its unique charm.

Gastronomic Products of Piacenza

• Culatello di Zibello

  Culatello di Zibello is a high-quality Italian cured meat produced in the Piacenza region. It is made from the finest part of the pig, the rump, which is seasoned with salt and left to age for at least 12 months. The result is a tender and flavorful cured meat with an intense yet delicate taste.

• Tortelli piacentini

  Tortelli piacentini are a specialty of Piacenza cuisine. These are pasta parcels filled with ricotta, spinach, and other ingredients, served with a butter and sage sauce. Tortelli is a traditional and delicious dish that you must try during your visit to Piacenza.

• Salame piacentino

  Salame piacentino is another standout gastronomic product from Piacenza. It is made with pork, fat, salt, and spices and is aged for several months. The result is a salami with an intense flavor and smooth texture, perfect for enjoying in a good Italian charcuterie platter.

• Mostarda di frutta

  Mostarda di frutta is a fruit preserve in syrup with a spicy touch, typical of the Piacenza region. It is made with fruits such as pears, apples, plums, and peaches, which are slowly cooked with sugar and mustard. This delicious preserve is served as a complement to cheeses and meats, offering a very interesting contrast of flavors.

Sports Activities in Piacenza, Italy

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Italy, and Piacenza is no exception. You can watch a match at the Stadio Leonardo Garilli, home of Piacenza Calcio 1919, or even join a local game on one of the many fields in the city.

Cycling

Italy is famous for its love of cycling, and Piacenza offers many routes to explore. You can rent a bicycle and tour the city or venture into the surrounding countryside to enjoy the stunning views of the Piacenza hills.

Hiking

The hills and mountains surrounding Piacenza offer numerous hiking trails. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the region and get panoramic views of the city and the Po River.

Swimming

In the summer months, you can enjoy swimming in one of the many rivers and lakes in the area. There are also several pools in the city, both outdoor and indoor, where you can swim and relax.

Skiing

If you visit Piacenza in winter, you can go skiing in the nearby Apennine mountains. There are several ski resorts within a short drive from the city, offering slopes for all skill levels.

Nearby Places to Piacenza (Italy)

If you are in Piacenza and want to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Cremona, an Italian gem in the Lombardy region, will captivate you with its rich history and exquisite gastronomy. Discover the majesty of its cathedral and indulge in the flavors of its famous dishes such as torrone and risotto alla cremonese.

Parma, the jewel of the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy, enchants visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and, of course, its famous Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese and Parma ham. A must-visit destination for lovers of good food and Italian culture.

Borgo Val di Taro, a charming Italian village surrounded by beautiful mountainous landscapes. Discover its rich history, enjoy its delicious local cuisine, such as the famous porcini mushrooms, and be captivated by its warm and traditional atmosphere.