Explore Italy
Emilia-Romagna

Population: 3.947.102
Surface (Kmq): 22124
Density (Inhabitants/Kmq.): 179
Main city: Bologna (BO)
Other towns: Ferrara (FE); Forlì-Cesena (FC); Modena (MO); Parma (PR); Piacenza (PC); Ravenna (RA); Reggio Emilia (RE); Rimini (RN).

The region is composed of contrasting landscapes: the endless horizons of the vast plain formed by the River Po; hilly vineyards; steep and lush Apennine cliffs; a lengthy coastline stretching over 120km with velvety beaches, nautical facilities, tourist harbours and fishing villages. And with arguably the finest cuisine in Italy (don't start) you’ll enjoy superb meals wherever you go. Of the towns there are: Ravenna, with its mosaics; Bologna, with porticoes, towers and senatorial palaces; and the dual feel, medieval and Renaissance, of Ferrara. Many wonderful castles and strongholds perch in the mountains and tower in the valleys, and spacious villas rest on the plains. The region is also famous for its spas - true havens of well-being  thanks to the healthy waters flowing down the slopes of the Apennines and along the coasts. Emilia Romagna is also home to Ferrari.


Ravenna
Once capital of the Western Roman Empire (around 500AD), then the seat of the Gothic kings, and then a major outpost of Byzantium under the rule of Constantinople. The legacy is an enormous treasure house of architecture, monuments and religious buildings. Once a coastal town (the sea has long receded and is now reached via an 11km canal, Ravenna is today a centre of art, culture and, famously 'the city of mosaics'. Be sure to visit Ravenna during your vacation in Emilia-Romagna.


Parma (left)
Parma has the highest standard of living in Italy, an affluent town even by Emilia-Romagna's elevated standards. A pleasant, comfortable town, a major reason for a trip to Parma is the superb food - Parma ham and Parmesan cheese is just the beginning.

Bologna (right)
Red Bologna or Bologna the Fat, this beautiful city has food for the mind as well as the belly. An exceedingly cultured and sophisticated town, with some beautiful architecture. Set aside a few days for a visit to Bologna.


Modena (left)
A superb and unspoiled medieval centro storico is the chief reason for visiting Modena. You have to see the 12th century cathedral (duomo), one of the finest Romanesque structures in the world.

Reggio Emilia
A quiet, ancient town, with a cathedral and some fine churches and galleries.