Parma is a city situated in the Emilia-Romagna region, in Northern Italy. Home for one of the oldest universities in the world, the University of Parma, and for many museums and churches, Parma is actually best known for the food: the ham (Prosciutto di Parma) and cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano) made here are known worldwide.
The city, divided in two parts by the 92 km. long Parma River, has a few sites visited by tourists ever year. Even if it’s not the friendliest touristic destination, it’s a shame to drive past it if you’re in the area. Besides, it’s so close to other important cities: Milan is to its north, Florence to its south and the Apennines are nearby.
Among the most visited cultural buildings in the city, Teatro Farnese is in first place. It’s entirely built in wood, which makes it a very interesting place to visit. The theater is part of the Palazzo della Pilotta, an entire palace that houses the Archaeological Museum, the Bodoni Museum, the Academy of Fine Arts, the Palatine Library and the National Gallery.
Some say that Parma’s Baptistery is the most interesting building in the city, maybe because it’s among the most important Medieval monuments in Europe. The Baptistery of Parma is right near the Romanesque Cathedral, built in the early 1500’s. Other places of worship in Parma include the church of Saint John the Evangelist – which includes three cloisters, a convent and a Benedictine grocery, the Sanctuary of Santa Maria della Steccata – a Greek-cross design Renaissance church, The Benedictine Monastery of San Paolo – which houses the Camera di San Paolo.
Very important for the history of Parma are the central Palace of the Governor and the Garden Ducal Palace. The Citadella is also interesting, the architecture is simply amazing. Castello di Compiano should also be on your “to visit” list, when you’re in the neighbourhood, it’s breathtakingly beautiful. So is Castello di Roccabianca, built in the 15th century.
For those of you who enjoy taking a walk, there are a few places you can explore. The Parco Ducale should be your first choice, it’s beautiful, peaceful and relaxing. The Ducal Palace is right in the middle of the park, if you would like to visit it. Orto Botanico di Parma is another great destination to explore on foot. It’s a botanical garden maintained by the University, where aquatic plants and exotic trees are being grown, as well as some tropical plants and fruits, with the help of the glass house.
Parma is also one of the few cities to have a strong American football team: the Parma Panthers. They are also the subject of a recently written book, “Playing for Pizza”, written by the american writer John Grisham.
So, even if the city of Parma is not your regular touristic destination, there still are a lot of places you can visit: places of worship, palaces, gardens.
Next time you’re nearby, make sure you make a pit stop and visit Parma. You won’t regret it one bit!